Life expectancy has increased steadily over the years, but one’s health span has unfortunately failed to keep up. As we age, most of us would like to live a long and healthy life and not one where the latter years are spent depending on others or immobile with some chronic disease. We all know that the combination of exercise and good nutrition determines our health and there is so much we can do to influence this, especially as we age. Older adults need more calcium and vitamin D to help maintain bone health. To meet these needs, it’s strongly advised that over 50s take calcium supplements.
Calcium is important for bone health throughout your life.
Over 99 percent of the calcium in your body is stored in your bones and teeth.
Although diet is the best way to get calcium, calcium supplements may be an option if your diet falls short.
It’s so important that if you don’t get the recommended amount in your diet, your body will take it from your skeleton and teeth to use elsewhere, weakening your bones and this is why taking calcium supplements is so important for over 50s.
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The amount of calcium a person will need from a supplement depends on how much calcium you obtain from food sources.
There are several different calcium compounds from which to choose, such as calcium carbonate and calcium citrate, among others.
Except in people with gastrointestinal disease, all major forms of calcium supplements are absorbed equally well when taken with food.
Calcium supplements are better absorbed when taken in small doses (500 mg or less) several times throughout the day.
Calcium supplements aren’t for everyone, added the Mayo Clinic.
It continued “For instance, if you have a health condition that causes excess calcium in your bloodstream (hypercalcemia), you should avoid calcium supplements.
“It’s not definitive, but there may be a link between high-dose calcium supplements and heart disease. The evidence is mixed, and more research is needed before doctors know.”
Until more is known about these possible risks, it’s important to be careful to avoid excessive amounts of calcium. As with any health issue, it’s important to talk to your doctor to determine what’s right for you.