Calcium is without a doubt important for the bones. But this study says that it''''s important to take
Calcium during puberty, when the bones reach their peak mass before it slowly diminishes with age; otherwise, the
benefits disappear. Bottomline: take calcium
supplements early, and stick to it for continuous benefits.
Supplements of calcium effectively increased the build up and
bone mineral content in teenage girls, but the benefits are undone if the supplementation stops, suggests a new study. An 18-month randomised trial found that a daily 792 mg calcium supplement boosted bone mineral content in girls, report the researchers in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
Moreover, the researchers from the University of Sheffield report that bone turnover also, measured using parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels, and markers of bone resorption (weakening of the bone) also decreased as a result of the intervention.
At the end of 18 months, the bone mineral content (BMC) in the girls receiving the calcium supplements was
greater at all skeletal sites except the hip. Moreover, bone mineral density (BMD) was significantly greater compared to the control group.
Of course, while taking calcium, it''''s important to take
vitamin D for excellent calcium absorption in the gut, and magnesium to balance calcium, and vitamin c to promote collagen formation in the bones. Also, do not neglect physical activity. The more your stress your bones the stronger it becomes.
More abstracts about the Calcium and Bone Health