How to drink calcium correctly - dosage and expert recommendations

It is no secret that calcium is necessary for the formation of bone and dental tissue. In this regard, a completely logical question arises: is it possible to consume additional calcium to strengthen teeth? Dentists unanimously state that during the formation of teeth (and this is during childhood), this macronutrient is extremely necessary, but in adults calcium will not be able to improve their condition. To strengthen tooth enamel, special dental procedures are recommended for adults. In St. Petersburg they are carried out by specialists from Nurimed dentistry. You can make an appointment with a doctor by calling.

What does calcium do for the body?

Micro- and macroelements are necessary for the body for the full functioning of organs and systems. Beneficial features:

1. Affects blood clotting, helping to form a blood clot to block tissue rupture.
2. Takes part in the process of muscle contractility and excitability of nerve fibers.
3. Blocks the absorption of saturated fats in the digestive tract, thereby preventing the deposition of harmful cholesterol.
4. Contained in cellular and tissue fluids.
5. It is part of the membrane and nucleus of cells and affects the permeability of the membrane.
6. Failure of calcium concentration in the blood leads to disruption of the endocrine, pancreas and gonads, adrenal glands and pituitary gland. The element is involved in the activity of these organs.

The body should be enriched with calcium and other beneficial substances daily. This will avoid the development of pathologies and complications.

Calcium D3 Ultra

This calcium preparation (in the form of carbonate) improves metabolism, strengthens bones and teeth, and supports the proper functioning of the cardiovascular system. "Calcium D3 Ultra" are chewable tablets with various fruit flavors. The tablets are enriched with vitamin D3, which helps calcium to be well absorbed. The drug not only strengthens bone tissue and mineralizes teeth, but also improves muscle contractions and improves the transmission of nerve impulses. You need to take 3 tablets per day with meals. The course of treatment or prevention is at least a month. "Calcium D3 Ultra" is inexpensive and has a pleasant taste. The disadvantages of the drug are that one tablet contains a low concentration of essential substances, so you need to take several per day, which is not very convenient. Well, not every pharmacy has this calcium supplement.

Calcium D3 Ultra

INAT-Pharma, Russia

A combined drug that regulates the exchange of calcium and phosphorus in the body (in bones, teeth, nails, hair, muscles).
Reduces resorption (resorption) and increases bone density, replenishing the lack of calcium and vitamin D3 in the body, necessary for the mineralization of teeth. from 145

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When should you start taking calcium?

The supplement is prescribed for the prevention of various diseases, an increase in the need for the element, and a lack of absorption. Lack of the substance causes kidney disease, hypertension, and intestinal malabsorption. The main causes of hypocalcemia in the body:

• unbalanced diet;
• following strict diets;
• chronic pancreatitis;
• long bed rest;
• lack of vitamin D;
• kidney diseases;
• dysfunction of the thyroid and parathyroid glands;
• excess iron, zinc, phosphorus, sodium, lead, magnesium;
• dysbacteriosis;
• candidiasis;
• food allergies;
• long-term use of diuretics and laxatives.

Those at risk include the elderly, children, teenagers, and pregnant or breastfeeding women. At this age and condition, macronutrient consumption increases sharply.

The role of calcium in the life of a pregnant woman

The body of the expectant mother while carrying a child needs minerals and vitamins. Pregnant women are often diagnosed with a lack of this microelement, which is responsible for the condition of teeth, bones, hair, muscles, and the formation of the cardiac and nervous systems. The element is involved in the development of all tissues and organs of the baby.

Doppelhertz Active Magnesium+Calcium+D3

This calcium preparation is presented in the form of carbonate, available in the form of effervescent tablets, and is prescribed from the age of 14. “Doppelhertz Active Magnesium + Calcium + D3” is suitable for adults and adolescents, improves overall well-being, and perfectly replenishes calcium deficiency in the body. Effervescent tablets are well absorbed and practically do not irritate the gastric mucosa. In addition to calcium, the complex contains vitamin D3, which is responsible for the absorption of macronutrients, as well as magnesium, a building material for bones, which also has a positive effect on the cardiovascular system. “Doppelhertz Active Magnesium + Calcium + D3” improves sleep, calms the nervous system, improves memory, gives a surge of energy and stimulates metabolism.

Doppelhertz Active Magnesium+Calcium+D3

Queisser Pharma, Germany

An additional source of vitamins D3, B2, magnesium, calcium.
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How to understand that there is not enough calcium in the body

The first symptoms of macronutrient deficiency are increased fatigue and general weakness. Signs of hypocalcemia:

• deterioration of hair, teeth, skin and nails;
• numbness of limbs, convulsions;
• sleep disorder;
• disruption of the menstrual cycle;
• blood clotting disorder;
• weakening of the immune system.

With prolonged deficiency of the substance, osteoporosis, heart failure, and changes in mineral metabolism develop. Emerging pathologies require immediate treatment.

Solgar Calcium-Magnesium with Vitamin D3

Tablets made in the USA have a combined composition and completely cover the daily calcium requirement. The active ingredients in Solgar Calcium-Magnesium with Vitamin D3 vitamins are presented in the form of citrate. This drug is prescribed from the age of 18. The product not only strengthens bones and muscles, but also has a positive effect on the condition of hair and nails. “Solgar Calcium-Magnesium with Vitamin D3” helps the production of hormones, improves mood, is suitable for the prevention of osteoporosis, reduces cramps in the calf muscles, and strengthens the cardiovascular system. The positive effect of taking these calcium tablets is noticeable after 2 weeks.

Solgar Calcium-Magnesium with Vitamin D3

SOLGAR, USA

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What medications are there?

There are several forms of calcium: gluconate, carbonate, citrate and chelate. Each type has certain properties and levels of digestibility.

1. Gluconate. This type of element has the largest list of contraindications and side effects. It is absorbed by the body only 3%. With long-term treatment, stones form in the gall bladder and kidneys. Its only advantage is its low price.
2. Carbonate. The most common form of calcium is absorbed by 17-22% at high and 0% at low acidity. Long-term use leads to the formation of calcium kidney stones. Taking a large amount of the element at a time can cause nausea, abdominal pain, and digestive tract disorders.
3. Citrate. The absorption rate of the drug is 44%. Calcium can be taken at any time, even on an empty stomach. This form of the element is safe for humans and does not cause the formation of stones. Calcium citrate helps change the pH of urine, eliminating the development of diseases of the urinary ducts and genital infections.
4. Chelated. On the world market this is the best form of calcium, which is also called “ionic”. The absorption of the drug is equal to 90-98%. The product has no side effects and does not irritate the digestive tract. The chelate is completely soluble in water, and the rapid release of calcium ions protects the blood from oversaturation with the element.

There is also calcium chloride in ampoules, which is used to more quickly saturate the body with the substance. Droppers are prescribed to people with increased secretion of the element and a deficiency in the functioning of the parathyroid glands.

Now Foods, Calcium Hydroxyapatite

This is an American calcium preparation of animal origin, which means it is ideal for strengthening teeth (97% of our tooth enamel is calcium). Now Foods are powder capsules. This form of release allows you to protect calcium from the aggressive influence of the gastric environment, so calcium is absorbed almost completely. You can take Now Foods calcium from the age of 18, it reduces the amount of plaque on your teeth, makes them smoother, enamel defects become less noticeable, and the likelihood of developing caries is reduced.

Now Foods Calcium Hydroxyapatite

Now Foods, USA

Calcium hydroxyapatite contains macroelements, which is a balanced mixture of minerals necessary for the body.
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Calcium norm, how much should you take

Before you start taking a dietary supplement, you should know your daily calcium intake.

The calcium level can be increased with the use of anabolic steroids, hormones, and excessive physical activity.

The importance of calcium for bone tissue

Calcium is the main component of the mineral matrix, which makes up more than half of bone mass and provides complete skeletal structure. It is known that the skeletal system is constantly renewed (remodeled). During bone remodeling, calcium plays a key role in ensuring adequate ossification of the protein matrix. According to some authors, calcium activates calcitriol and growth factors, enhances the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts, and reduces the rate of bone resorption. To maintain osteoid mineralization, a constant stable concentration of the mineral in plasma is required [2, 9].

Bone remodeling processes occur most actively in children and adolescents and are accompanied by an increased need for calcium. The formation of peak bone mass before 15–17 years of age determines bone strength in the future. At the same time, about 40% of Russian children without somatic pathology affecting phosphorus-calcium metabolism have reduced bone mineral density (BMD), and 11% of adolescents have osteoporosis. According to a number of authors, in 45% of cases of fractures of long bones in childhood, a decrease in BMD is diagnosed, and osteoporosis is verified in 7% of those examined. With scoliosis, a decrease in BMD is detected in 12% of children, and with severe curvature of the spine - in 70% [1–9].

One of the leading causes of imbalance in bone remodeling and decreased BMD in childhood is a nutritional deficiency of calcium and/or vitamin D against the background of rapid growth. It has been established that the physiological need for calcium can be met by daily consumption of at least 3 different dairy products and additional intake of fish twice a week. However, only half of Russian children receive dairy products daily, while their daily calcium intake is 50–60% less than the recommended norm and averages 400–800 mg. Approximately 60% of children and adolescents consume fish dishes less than 2 times a week [5–8]. An additional cause of dietary calcium deficiency is the consumption of foods that interfere with the absorption of this mineral in the intestines. Insufficient calcium in the diet causes the development of latent hypocalcemia, which leads to a compensatory increase in the secretion of parathyroid hormone, activation of osteoclasts and mobilization of calcium from bone depots into the bloodstream [8–10].

Side effects of calcium supplements

With uncontrolled intake of the element, hypercalcemia is observed, which negatively affects the functioning of the entire body. Main side effects during self-medication:

• upset stool, bloating, constipation;
• formation of kidney stones;
• decreased effectiveness of other medications;
• numbness, muscle spasms;
• toxicity of the supplement's auxiliary components;
• increased irritability.

If you have any symptoms of calcium overdose, you should consult a doctor.

Complivit Calcium D3 Forte

Calcium preparation in the form of chewable tablets (1 tablet contains 500 mg of calcium, 400 mg of vitamin D3). After a course of taking this drug, there is a thickening of bone tissue, mineralization of bones and teeth, and a stop in the process of leaching calcium from the body. Contraindications to the use of Complivit calcium D3 forte include pregnancy and breastfeeding. These calcium tablets with a high concentration of substances strengthen the immune system, stimulate the metabolism of calcium and phosphorus, serve as an excellent prevention of osteoporosis, have a pleasant taste, and are inexpensive. Among the disadvantages is the possible development of an allergic reaction.

Complivit Calcium D3

JSC Pharmstandard-UfaVITA, Russia

Regulates the exchange of calcium and phosphates, reduces resorption and increases bone density, compensates for the lack of calcium and vitamin D3 in the body, enhances the absorption of calcium in the intestines and the reabsorption of phosphates in the kidneys, promotes bone mineralization.
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Interaction with other drugs

Before using several types of medications, you should consult a doctor. At least 2 hours should pass between taking calcium and sodium fluoride, bisphosphonates, tetracyclines, and glycosides. This is because the element can increase or decrease the therapeutic and toxic effects of drugs.

The absorption of calcium is reduced when taken simultaneously with zinc, while calcium does not allow the body to be saturated with manganese and iron. When using prednisolone, the excretion of the substance increases. Calcium absorption is facilitated by additional intake of magnesium and vitamin D.

How to choose a calcium supplement

Many factors influence how calcium is absorbed in the body. Let's look at the main ones.

1. Associated health problems.
   If you are over 60 years old or have gastrointestinal diseases, we recommend choosing calcium citrate preparations. If a person has a tendency to constipation, it is better to buy calcium phosphate. For older people (especially if there is coronary heart disease or congestive heart failure), calcium enriched with magnesium and potassium is suitable (but first consult a doctor). For anemia, it is better to choose Calcemin Advance (it does not affect the absorption of iron, like other calcium preparations).
2. Lifestyle and nutritional habits.
   Most people today are deficient in vitamin D, which is produced by exposure to the sun and found in fish. This vitamin is necessary for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus. Therefore, if you suspect you have a vitamin D deficiency, choose calcium supplements fortified with it.
3. Tendency to allergies.
   Before taking any vitamins and minerals (including calcium supplements), be sure to consult your doctor. An allergy can be either to the main component of the drug or to auxiliary components.
4. Age.
   Be sure to read the instructions before purchasing calcium to understand at what age a particular drug should be taken. By the way, many tablets cannot be broken, but taken only whole - this also needs to be taken into account.

IMPORTANT!

Any calcium supplements should not be taken with milk. Milk dissolves the tablet shell, and the active substance is quickly destroyed by stomach acid.

Calcium-rich foods

Dairy products are the most powerful source of calcium. The macronutrient is also found in greens, nuts, vegetables and fruits. The table shows foods by category that are high in calcium.

Almost all foods contain calcium, but in lower concentrations.

TOP 10 products for healthy and beautiful teeth

TOP 10 products for healthy and beautiful teeth

1. Hard vegetables and fruits (carrots, apples, cucumbers, beets) Carrots, apples, cucumbers and beets contain many vitamins and microelements that are beneficial for teeth and gums, such as beta-carotene, vitamins B, D, E, K, C, PP, calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium, phosphorus, iodine, fluorine, iron, cobalt and silver, which normalize blood circulation in the gums and supply calcium and phosphorus necessary for healthy teeth. Our teeth and gums become accustomed to soft, processed foods and stop functioning normally, resulting in plaque and poor circulation. Just a couple of hard vegetables or fruits a day - and your gums will be provided with a good massage, and your teeth will be free of deposits. In addition, such vegetables stimulate the secretion of saliva, which constantly washes the oral cavity and reduces the number of germs and bacteria.

2. Greens (parsley, lettuce, onion, dill, celery)

The composition of greens includes important not only for teeth, but also for the whole body as a whole, vitamins B, E, A, C, PP, potassium, calcium, magnesium, iodine, sodium, phosphorus, iron, beta-carotene and folic acid. Greens strengthen not only teeth, but also the immune system in general, help strengthen blood vessels, improve blood formation processes and eliminate bleeding from the gums. Parsley and onion have a natural antibacterial, refreshing and odor-eliminating effect, their juice penetrates into hard-to-reach places, whitens teeth, removes plaque, strengthens and massages gums.

3. Berries (currants, grapes, strawberries, cranberries)

The berries are rich in a unique combination of organic acids, pigments and pectins, and contain vitamins PP, A, group B, C, E, H, beta-carotene, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, iodine and fluorine. The juice of some berries is recommended to be used to prevent caries. For example, cranberry juice, due to its bactericidal effect, reduces the likelihood of caries. It is believed that the components of berry juices block bacteria from accessing tooth enamel. Grapes can also be used in the prevention of caries, because it contains a whole complex of minerals and trace elements that have a beneficial effect on teeth and gums. In addition, grapes contain substances that block the activity of pathogenic microbes in the oral cavity.

4. Nuts (almonds, pine nuts, cashews)

Nuts contain all essential amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamins A, B, C, D, E, P, as well as potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and other mineral elements that determine their high nutritional value. In addition, cashew nuts contain a unique substance that can destroy bacteria that destroy tooth enamel. It has antibacterial, antiseptic, tonic properties, and relieves toothache. Pine nuts contain vanadium, which promotes the development of bone tissue, phosphorus, which is involved in the formation and preservation of teeth and bones and plays an important role in the activity of muscles and nerve cells, calcium, which is the main component of bones and teeth and is necessary for blood clotting, cell integrity and cardiac activity. Almonds contain substances that improve the condition of teeth and gums; in addition, they have analgesic and antispasmodic effects.

5.Dairy products (cheese, cottage cheese, yogurt)

In addition to calcium, potassium, magnesium and vitamins A, B and D, which are beneficial for our body as a whole, dairy products also have a certain effect on teeth. Thus, yogurt reduces the amount of hydrogen sulfide, which is the main factor causing bad breath, quickly raises the pH level, and phosphates, calcium and casein help mineralize teeth. Cheese can be considered an effective means of preventing caries, because it increases the concentration of calcium in tooth enamel by 60% and increases the volume of saliva, which contains components that prevent the development of caries and gum inflammation. Cottage cheese contains proteins, lactic acid, iron and magnesium. It is well absorbed by the body, and the calcium and phosphorus salts that make up it are involved in the formation of bone tissue, nutrition of the nervous system and the formation of hemoglobin in the blood.

6. Citrus fruits (grapefruit, lime, orange) Citrus fruits necessarily include potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, phosphorus, iron, vitamins B, E, C, PP, which are so necessary for the body. Citrus aromas not only tone you up, lift your spirits, reduce drowsiness and increase attention and productivity, but also have a beneficial effect on teeth and gums. For example, eating grapefruit daily reduces bleeding gums and reduces the risk of inflammatory diseases of the oral cavity, and gum disease is the main cause of tooth loss. It is also recommended to eat lime, which helps prevent tooth decay and contains many substances beneficial for teeth and gums. Calcium and phosphorus contained in lime help enamel resist pathogens and caries, and gums improve the functioning of blood vessels and prevent bleeding. At the same time, lime contains organic acids, which, while having a slight whitening effect, do not corrode the enamel and do not destroy the natural microflora of the teeth and oral cavity. Contained in huge quantities of vitamin C in oranges, it maintains a healthy collagen network in the gums, which prevents the development of many dental ailments by destroying bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum inflammation.

7. Seafood (fish, shrimp)

From a nutritional point of view, seafood is considered an almost ideal food, because it is rich in microelements and vitamins, primarily calcium, phosphorus, fluorine, vitamins B1 and D, the insufficient presence of which leads to fragility of bone tissue, diseases of teeth and gums. These elements strengthen the health of the gums and promote the proper formation of teeth, improve complexion and hair health, and help the body strengthen the immune system. Shrimp contains calcium, thiamine, riboflavin, sodium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron and manganese that are easily absorbed by the body. The high content of calcium and fluoride affects the prevention of diseases of teeth and gums, because these minerals serve as a source for the construction of bones, the growth and preservation of teeth, the prevention of plaque formation and enamel destruction. Almost every type of fish is rich in calcium, selenium and fluorine, but the most valued is sea fish and other seafood, which, due to their high content of iodine and calcium, provide anti-caries protection for teeth.

8. Eggs (chicken, quail) A chicken egg contains proteins, fats, carbohydrates, 12 essential vitamins and almost all microelements. The vitamin D it contains is a source of phosphorus and helps prevent tooth decay, and eggshells are an ideal source of calcium, which is easily absorbed by the body, while medications such as calcium chloride, gypsum and chalk are poorly absorbed. By consuming crushed quail egg shells, you can get rid of bleeding gums and make your teeth strong and healthy.

9. Honey

Everyone knows that honey is good for health; it is not only a powerful source of energy and a means of boosting immunity, but also has a positive effect on dental health. Honey is especially rich in vitamins B and C, honey has antibacterial properties, has a general strengthening and rejuvenating effect on the body, and chewing wax honeycombs helps clean teeth and disinfect the oral cavity, effectively treats stomatitis and inflammation of mucous tissues. Propolis is used to treat periodontal disease, dental caries and gum inflammation; according to scientists, it reduces the number of enzymes that help bacteria attach to the tooth surface. In addition, about a hundred elements have been found in propolis that provide dental protection.

10. Drinks (tea, water) Both black and green tea are very beneficial for teeth, due to the content of substances that stop the development of bacteria. The antioxidant catechin, which is part of the tea, kills bacteria that cause caries and bad breath, which means that by drinking a cup of tea after a meal, we freshen our breath and cleanse the oral cavity of bacteria, thereby protecting the gums and strengthening the teeth. Clean drinking water enriched with fluoride also has a positive effect on dental health. Fluoridated water strengthens tooth enamel and prevents the occurrence of caries, inhibits the formation and accumulation of soft plaque, suppresses the vital activity of microorganisms, which leads to a decrease in the accumulation of organic acids in the oral cavity. All these products will have a positive effect not only on your teeth, but also on the entire body as a whole. By consuming them daily, you saturate your body with vitamins and minerals that are good for your health. When your teeth and gums become strong and healthy, you will want to smile more often, which means a good mood and smiles in return are guaranteed!

Calcium tablets or eggshells

The shell of an egg is made of calcium carbonate - it is essentially limestone or chalk. It can be purchased in tablets at the pharmacy and is registered as food coloring E170. Eggshells are no better than medicine, because before use they must be dried, disinfected and turned into powder. The product is allowed to be taken if there is a shortage of macronutrients. It is just pointless to try to dissolve calcium carbonate in water since it is insoluble in liquid. In the stomach, hydrochloric acid dissolves the powder from the shell.

Calcium is a macronutrient that takes part in all processes in the body. Its excess or deficiency causes the development of many diseases. You cannot self-medicate; calcium should only be prescribed by a specialist, based on the patient’s condition and symptoms.

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Mountain calcium D3

This is a complex preparation of calcium in the form of carbonate, enriched with vitamin D3 and mumiyo. “Mountain Calcium D3” from “Evalar” is perfectly absorbed, supplying the body with the daily requirement of necessary substances. Shilajit contains about 30 important elements that improve blood composition. The drug is prescribed from the age of 12, for pregnant and breastfeeding women - only after consultation with a doctor. “Mountain calcium D3” is maximally bioavailable, strengthens bones, teeth, hair and nails, is suitable for the prevention of osteoporosis, and is inexpensive. Among the disadvantages are the unpleasant taste and the large size of the tablets.

Mountain calcium D3

Evalar, Russia

The combination of tablets Mountain calcium D3 calcium, vitamin D3 and Altai mumiyo in 1 tablet 100% replenishes calcium deficiency in the body.
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NUTS and SEEDS

Nuts and seeds contain substances beneficial for teeth in particularly concentrated quantities, and therefore it is extremely important to eat them regularly.

It will be good if you eat not the same type of nut always, but different varieties of seeds and nuts. Introduce walnuts and pine nuts, hazelnuts and Brazil nuts, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, and flax into your diet. This is important because the composition of nutrients in each nut is different, and therefore the effect is different for everyone. For example, pine nuts help the development of dental bone tissue.

At the same time, remember that cracking nuts with your teeth is a procedure that is traumatic for the tooth, so it is better to avoid it. For the same reason, it is harmful to crack seeds.