Across the globe, from Third World to First World countries, most people fail to consume the recommended amount of calcium. This is a serious concern as calcium is an essential nutrient that provides structural support for bones and teeth. Calcium is also a critical ion for vascular contraction and vasodilation, muscle contraction, nerve transmission, hormone action, and bone growth and maintenance in the physically active middle-aged adult.
40% of bone weight is comprised of calcium. Bones acts as a reservoir of calcium that can be drawn upon when calcium intake declines. This secretion of calcium from the bones causes the bones to weaken, leading to bone density problems such as osteoporosis.
Milk products are the greatest source of calcium in Western diets however sugar-dense soft drinks and juices are often replacing milk. In 2001 Americans drank roughly 2.5 times more soft drinks than milk. Supplements are a good alternative for individuals lacking the calcium-enriched foods required in their diets. Pairing a mineral supplement with a mineral water gives your body an additional portion of the daily nutrients it requires. And remember supplements and medications are meant to be taken with a hydrated body: drink 8 glasses of mineral water a day.
Allen, L. H, Kerstetter, J.E. (2005). “Encyclopedia of Human Nutrition” Second Edition. 253-259
Driskell, Judy A. (2009) “Nutrition and Exercise Concerns of Middle Age” Section IV- Minerals. 194-200
