Calcium is a mineral most abundantly found in the human body. It is the main constituent of the skeleton and helps in the formation and maintenance of our bones and teeth. Calcium plays a significant role in the contraction of muscles and secretion of certain hormones and enzymes. Expansion and contraction of blood vessels is dependent on calcium. It plays an important role in the clotting of blood. In short calcium is necessary for good health of our body. Therefore it should be consumed in sufficient amounts regularly. Read more on calcium and you.

Calcium is present in most dairy products and also in eggs, leafy vegetable, nuts, legumes and whole grains.The digestive system breaks down the calcium consumed, and facilitates its absorption in the body. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in the absorption of calcium. Major part of the absorbed calcium is stored in the bones, and the remaining is present in blood. Hence the short term calcium deficiency can be balanced by using up the calcium stored in the bones. But if this deficiency lasts longer, the calcium in the bones start depleting and it can lead to various health problems. Let’s see what are some calcium deficiency symptoms. Read more on calcium rich foods.

Calcium Deficiency Symptoms

Early Signs and Symptoms
Calcium deficiency in a person can be easily detected by observing his nails and skin. Inadequate calcium levels in the body make the nails brittle and the skin dry. Yellowing of the teeth also signals calcium deficiency. The early signs of calcium deficiency are muscle cramps, eye twitching, leg tensions, weakness, muscle aches and sleep disorders. Sweating in cold weather is also a symptom of low calcium levels. If these symptoms are not identified at the right time, prolonged calcium deficiency may lead to other health problems.

General Calcium Deficiency Symptoms
Calcium deficiency is mainly associated with skeletal abnormalities. The bones become brittle and are prone to fracture. It causes reduced bone density making them thinner and weaker. If ignored in the early stages, it can lead to several bone disorders like osteopenia, osteoporosis and osteomalacia. There are some less common symptoms of calcium deficiency like hypertension, kidney stones, unusual menstrual cramps and miscarriages. Read the rest of this entry »