Calcium and Osteoporosis

Calcium to build bone strength

Why do kids need calcium? Bones are half protein and half mineral. The main protein is collagen, which is also found in cartilage. Feel the tip of your nose or your ear: they are made of flexible cartilage. That is what the bones would be like without any mineral. The major minerals are calcium and phosphate. If growing pre-teens and teenagers do not get enough calcium, the bones will not be as strong as they could be. Weak bones break more easily. How much calcium is needed for strong bones? Pre-teens and teenagers should get 1200 mg calcium each day.

Taking calcium for osteoporosis

About age 30, men and women begin to slowly lose bone mass. A diet rich in calcium helps build strong bones and is an essential part of prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. Getting enough calcium slows bone loss. Women who have gone through menopause lose bone mass more rapidly. Too much bone loss causes osteoporosis, which can lead to broken bones and other serious health problems. Calcium is found in many foods, including dairy products such as milk or yogurt. If you do not get enough calcium from the foods you eat, you may choose to take calcium supplements. If you are diagnosed with osteoporosis, you should take calcium supplements.

Why is calcium used to treat or prevent osteoporosis?

Calcium maintains or helps reduce the rate of bone loss that occurs with osteoporosis. Taking calcium supplement can help strengthen your bones.