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.

Is calcium washed out of teeth during pregnancy?

This is a very common opinion: it is believed that the unborn baby “takes” calcium from the mother’s teeth, and it is from this that the bones of the fetus are formed. This is the cause of tooth decay, which often occurs during pregnancy. However, doctors do not share this opinion.

Yes, the baby growing in the mother’s belly really needs calcium in order for its tissues to form correctly. And therefore, during pregnancy, a woman should receive a sufficient amount of this element. But it has not been proven by science that the mother’s teeth suffer due to its deficiency.

In fact, if there is insufficient calcium intake during pregnancy, the baby's risk of tooth decay increases later. This has been confirmed by studies in which pregnant women regularly took calcium supplements. In the future, the children of these women had less caries than their peers whose mothers did not receive calcium.

This means that pregnant women need to take calcium to ensure that their baby has strong teeth in the future, not to keep their own teeth healthy.

But what about the fact that after the birth of a child, many mothers experience dental problems? Doctors explain this for other reasons. For example, during pregnancy a woman often vomits. At the same time, the acid content in the mouth increases, which affects the enamel, destroying it. To avoid this, you need to rinse your mouth thoroughly after vomiting, but you should not brush your teeth, mechanically irritating the enamel.

Another reason for tooth damage during pregnancy may be insufficient hygiene associated with gum inflammation - gingivitis, which develops in a woman under the influence of hormonal changes.

Poor nutrition, in particular a passion for carbohydrate foods, untreated caries before pregnancy, and tartar if a woman neglects to brush her teeth at the dentist also contribute.

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.

Will calcium supplements help strengthen teeth?

When it comes to adults, dentists answer this question in the negative. After all, calcium accumulates in the tooth tissue during its formation. And that’s when it is needed to strengthen teeth. When this process is over and the tooth has erupted, neither calcium nor other minerals enter the dental tissue from the blood.

In other words, you can take calcium supplements or eat cottage cheese and cheese every day, but you won’t be able to strengthen your teeth this way - they were fully formed in your childhood.

Nevertheless, dentists recommend eating a little cheese after a “sweet” meal. And although calcium from it will not get into the tooth enamel, cheese promotes the appearance of saliva, which cleanses the oral cavity. In addition, the calcium contained in cheese neutralizes the acidity of saliva, which prevents the destruction of enamel.

As for calcium supplements, they should be taken after consultation with a doctor, who can determine the lack of this element in the body.

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.

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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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.

Children's vitamins for dental health

Most often, the question of vitamins arises among parents in connection with the late appearance of teeth. In fact, there are no vitamins and minerals for teeth growth. In the vast majority of cases, the age at which the first tooth appears is influenced by genetics.

In general, the composition of vitamins for children differs from that for adults, so it is better to purchase special complexes rather than divide your tablet in half, into three parts, and so on. Choose a form that will be pleasant for your child - effervescent vitamins, gummy bears and syrups, then your child will be happy to take care of his dental health!

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.

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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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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