calcium for women. What are the best calcium preparations for women

Sooner or later, many people face the problem of calcium deficiency, regardless of age, gender and geographic location. Get your calcium just by eating healthy foods, more and more difficult, since their manufacture occurs most often from low-grade raw materials. And then you have to turn to medicine, which is ready to provide those in need with a huge selection of calcium-containing drugs.

How to understand the endless variety of names and determine which calcium is better?

You will find the answer in this article by reading it to the end.

What does calcium mean for a person and what threatens its deficiency?

Calcium is a good and basic building material for human body. Everything: hair, nails, bones, blood vessels, nerves owe their health to calcium metabolism. This is the most important macromineral, which can only be obtained from the outside (with food, drugs). At the same time, the gastrointestinal tract should work well so that the absorption of calcium occurs, as well as the urinary system should fully function in order to safely remove the remnants.

What does calcium do in the body?

Participates in the process of innervation - provokes a response of cells to external signals, reduces dependence on the weather, excessive excitability and irritability.
Responsible for the health of blood vessels and the heart - normalizes arterial pressure, normalizes the heart rate.
Takes part in the formation, growth and maintenance of normal bones, nails, skin and teeth, performs the prevention of osteoporosis, periodontal disease.
Normalizes blood clotting. Protects against heavy bleeding during menstruation.

What threatens a calcium deficiency to a person?

There are no specific statistics on the number of people suffering from a lack of this element in our country, but in the United States this figure was recorded at impressive rates. Therefore, there are many who carefully monitor their health, adjust not only their diet, but also use calcium tablets in combination.

Not only malnutrition can provoke a calcium deficiency, but also a lack of vitamin D, phosphorus, magnesium (they are important for the absorption of a macronutrient), as well as accompanying illnesses, age, use medicines preventing the breakdown of calcium.

If you do not adjust the level of calcium salts in the body, then the latter will begin to draw the missing part from its reserves, which is fraught with:

Frequent fractures;

Pain in the joints;

Fragility and destruction of nail and dental tissue;

Developmental delay (in a child);

Intrauterine disorders of the fetus (in pregnant women);

Malfunctions of the kidneys, liver;

Hormonal disorders;

Deterioration of attentiveness, ability to memorize;

Arrhythmia, increased blood pressure, as a result of severe cardiac pathologies.

Forms of calcium

It should be noted right away that there are a lot of variations of calcium, but there are some types of calcium that are better not to use.

The fact is that a number of these calcium variants very poorly absorbed by the body and in fact nothing positive can bring a person. On the contrary, the body begins to remove all calcium not absorbed by cells from the blood and postpone in soft tissues . The first to be calcified are:

Vessels of the spleen, liver and heart,

Then the mammary glands

Then kidneys and lungs

Then the muscles

The brain and other tissues

which further leads to violations in the work of organs.

Eggshell. Yes, it has a high calcium content, but this shell itself is designed primarily to protect the chicken. She absorbs everything like a sponge. environment, which can harm her ward and thus there are radioactive metals (plumbum, cadmium, lead and much more).
Layers of shells and perennial accumulations of ancient periods. This form has a 100% calcium content, which means that its absorption in this form is simply not possible; other microelements are needed for this.
calcium pantothenate. You can get it from the horns of animals, in fact it is the same bone and it cannot be absorbed. In addition, it is impossible to check the conditions under which the animal lived, what it was fed, whether it was sick, and this is an additional risk.

What is good calcium?

Calcium gluconate. It is absorbed many times better than the aforementioned forms, but of calcium preparations, it is the worst representative in terms of absorption (about 3%), because vitamin D3 (a conductor for this macronutrient) is not added to the tablets. In addition, this variation has the most wide range contraindications, and long-term use can cause stone formation gallbladder. The only advantage of gluconate is its low price category.
Calcium carbonate. Here you can already observe a much increased degree of assimilation - 22%. However, if the patient has low acidity, then it will not work to get the proper effect from the drug. Long-term use threatens with kidney stones and aspiration gastric acidity even lower than the original figures.
calcium citrate. Considered one of them the best options calcium. It is absorbed almost by half, moreover, its health hazard is minimal - it does not participate in the formation of kidney stones. By consuming calcium citrate, the elderly and those who have low acidity in the stomach can be calm. Yes, and lemon calcium as an additive for women will be very useful. However, it is able to increase the acidity of the stomach, not suitable for everyone.
calcium phosphate. It is not very well absorbed, as it has an inorganic origin, in addition, the content of phosphates in the preparation can adversely affect human health. Now the phosphorus load is already quite large, since it is used everywhere.
Calcium chloride. A big minus is the effect on the gastrointestinal tract ( pain, heartburn), therefore it is used only in solutions for intravenous administration.
calcium lactate. This version of calcium tablets is well absorbed, but requires a large dosage, as it has low content the elementary form of the macronutrient.
calcium chelate. This variation, also called "ionic calcium", is a kind of innovation and has a lot of advantages compared to its "brothers". Its absorption rate is amazing - 97%, plus in its composition it has an additive in the form of vitamin D3. It has practically no contraindications and side effects. The use of chelated calcium can be prolonged, as it quickly releases the ions of the element and does not linger in the blood.

Why is the chelated form of Ca the most bioavailable?

Chelates are compounds consisting of a charged particle (metal ion) surrounded by amino acids.

An example of chelate compounds in the body is the hemoglobin molecule. It consists of an iron ion and four polypeptide particles.

All micro and macro elements are absorbed in the small intestine. This happens by the method of transporting metal ions by proteins. Otherwise, if the body does not see the protein "escort" that accompanies the microelement, then it simply ignores it. Otherwise, the body expends additional forces for binding of a microelement with transport amino acids capable of transferring it into the blood.

This form is convenient in that it is already ready for assimilation by the body, since it does not require additional transformations in the process of following to small intestine.

Chelated compounds do not react with the acidic environment of the stomach, but are soluble in the alkaline environment of the small intestine. Amino acids protect Ca ions from the aggressive gastric environment, ensuring their delivery to their destination.

Meanwhile, inorganic calcium salts alkalize the acidic environment of the stomach, causing bloating and indigestion.

Still have questions?

Of course, among a large number of drugs it is difficult to stop at one, but there is a drug that can satisfy all the needs of a person who wants to ensure the proper calcium level in his body. Such scientific development is .

This is not just calcium, but a real storehouse of vitamins and macronutrients that can cope not only with calcium deficiency, but also with a host of ailments. "Element 1" from the very beginning directs its forces to increase immunity, because, as you know, it is he who is responsible for our security. Only effective immune resistance to pathogenic microorganisms can save a person from diseases and this remedy will help with this.

A separate advantage of the use is its focus on different ages and categories. It is equally useful for children and the elderly, as well as for pregnant and lactating women.

The presented complex is absorbed by 100%, since it contains exclusively natural components (calcium, vitamins, pollen etc.).

The form of the drug is designed so that it does not require long-term use for months. The course is 30 days, and the dose is 1-2 capsules per day.

All raw materials are absolutely safe and certified, as their production is controlled by highly qualified specialists.

Why this calcium supplement?

The complex includes the best and most positively influencing option calcium - chelate. It is this form that is bioavailable, it can easily cope with the task of restoring calcium levels, preventing diseases of the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and hematopoietic systems. In addition, sleep, blood pressure will quickly return to normal, and the number of allergies will also decrease.

Now you know which calcium is better, so get it. He will be able to maintain calcium levels and support the health of the entire family quickly and effectively.

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Update: October 2018

Calcium (Ca) is one of the most important macronutrients for the human body, involved in the construction of tissues and metabolism. The element ranks fifth in the list of all minerals found in the body, accounting for about 2% of a person's weight.

The role of calcium in the body cannot be overestimated. In addition to the well-known building material for bones and teeth, the macronutrient regulates the contractile function of the heart, nourishes the nervous tissue and participates in impulse conduction, lowers cholesterol, regulates blood pressure, takes part in transportation nutrients cell membranes and much more.

Calcium is extremely important for pregnant women - only with proper intake it is provided physiological development fetus and the normal state of health of the expectant mother.

The amount of calcium in the body

In newborns, there is about 30 grams of calcium in the body. Gradually, the amount of calcium increases in adults and is approximately 1000-1200 g (for an average weight of 70 kg). The daily intake of calcium from food depends on age and gender:

Reasons for the development of calcium deficiency

Behavioral and external causes

Insufficient intake of calcium from food, which is often observed when following certain diets for weight loss, unbalanced nutrition, vegetarianism, starvation, neglect of dairy products, etc.
Low calcium content in water.
Smoking, excessive passion for coffee (accelerate the excretion of Ca).

Diseases, pathological conditions

Violation of the absorption of a macronutrient in the intestine, which occurs against the background of dysbacteriosis, candidiasis, food allergies, chronic enterocolitis, etc.
Diseases of the kidneys, hematopoietic system, pancreas (pancreatitis), thyroid gland s (familial, idiopathic, postoperative hypoparathyroidism, in which hypocalcemia develops due to increased production of parathyroid hormone by the parathyroid glands).
Lack of estrogen
Rickets
(dairy and other products containing the element).

Metabolic disorders

Excess in the body of the following elements: lead, zinc, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, cobalt, potassium and sodium, which contribute to the excretion of calcium.
Deficiency in the body of vitamin D3, which is involved in the assimilation of the element and its incorporation into cell structures (the norm for an adult is from 400 to 800 IU).

Other reasons

An increased need for an element that is observed during a period of accelerated growth, during pregnancy and lactation (calcium is used to build fetal tissues or enrich breast milk), increased physical and mental stress (accelerated consumption), menopause (lack of estrogen that absorbs calcium).
Old age (impaired calcium absorption).
Treatment with diuretics and laxatives (accelerated elimination).

Symptoms of calcium deficiency in the body

Weakness, fast fatiguability, decreased performance.
Nervousness, irritability.
Dryness and peeling of the skin, brittle nails. excessive sweating scalp.
Tooth decay, caries.
Numbness of the fingers, face, cramps, pain in the legs and arms.
- fragility of bones, frequent fractures or cracks, deformation of bones.
Violation of cardiac activity up to the development of heart failure, tachycardia.
Subcapsular (with prolonged hypocalcemia).
Increased bleeding, impaired blood clotting.
Reduced immunity, which is expressed by frequent infections.
Increased sensitivity to cold weather (aches in the bones and muscles, chills).
Signs of calcium deficiency in children: violation of the formation of teeth and bones, pathological changes in the lens of the eye, disorders nervous system, excitability, convulsions, poor blood clotting.

Diagnosis of hypocalcemia

Diagnosis of the condition is carried out on the basis of the patient's complaints and the laboratory determination of the element in the blood serum (the norm is 2.15 - 2.50 mmol / l).

Treatment - how to compensate for the lack of calcium

Therapy acute condition hypocalcemia is carried out in a hospital, tk. this situation is life threatening.
chronic deficiency macronutrient requires taking calcium supplements, vitamin D3 and other elements, normalizing the diet and eliminating behavioral factors and products that impair the absorption of Ca or contribute to its loss.

Therapeutic drugs are prescribed in such a way that the daily intake of the element is approximately 1.5-2 g. Vitamin D preparations are selected in an individual dosage, based on the needs of the body. The course of treatment, as a rule, is long and is set individually. Modern pharmaceutical industry produces combined preparations containing both calcium and vitamin D3 and other necessary pharmacologically active substances.

Calcium preparations

Pharmaceutical preparations are prescribed for the treatment and prevention of conditions and diseases associated with hypocalcemia, as well as to accelerate the healing of bone fractures. Features of calcium preparations:

The composition should indicate the amount of elemental, pure calcium;
The best digestibility is achieved with simultaneous reception with food;
Caffeine, carbonated drinks and alcohol significantly impair the absorption of the element;
Poor digestibility is also characteristic when combined with antibiotics from the tetracycline group, laxatives, anti-inflammatory and anticonvulsants;
Often calcium supplements cause side effects in the form of abdominal pain, nausea, constipation.
Each drug has a number of strict contraindications (pregnancy, urolithiasis disease tuberculosis, chronic renal failure, childhood etc.).

All drugs from this category can be divided into 3 groups:

Monopreparations containing a macronutrient in the form of a salt: calcium carbonate (40% of the element), calcium citrate (21%), calcium gluconate (9%), calcium lactate (13%), etc.
Combined drugs, including calcium salts, vitamin D and other minerals. Vitamin D is involved in calcium metabolism, synthesis and maintenance of bone architectonics, therefore, such dosage forms more effective: Calcium D3 Nycomed, Calcemin, etc.
Multivitamins. They contain several vitamins and minerals in prophylactic dosages and are intended for the prevention of hypocalcemia, and are also prescribed as an additional source of the element: Multi-tabs, Alphabet, etc. (calcium content per 1 tablet 150-200 mg).

Popular drugs

Calcium carbonate and Magnesium carbonate

Rennie 170 -250 rubles. (menthol, orange, mint). Contains calcium in bound systemic form, 680 mg calcium 80 mg magnesium hydroxycarbonate per 1 chewable tablet. It is used to eliminate the shortcomings of these elements, and also provides antacid action. It is intended for use by adults and children over 12 years old - 2 tab. after eating, dissolving in the mouth (maximum 11 per day).

Calcium chloride

In 1 ml - 0.1 g of calcium chloride. A drug prescribed for hypocalcemia, diseases thyroid gland, vessels. Produced as a solution for intravenous administration in adults (15 ml 2-3 r per day) and children (5-10 ml 2 r per day), diluted with glucose or sodium chloride.

Calcium carbonate + Colecalciferol

Popular combined preparations that compensate for the deficiency of the element and improve its absorption. Under the action of the drug, the absorption of elements in the gastrointestinal tract is regulated, increased synthesis of parathyroid hormones is prevented, and resorption increases. bone tissue. WITH therapeutic purpose the dosage is selected individually. From prophylactic:

children 4-11 years old - 1 t 2 r per day
children over 12 liters and adults - 2 tons 3 r per day.

Calcemin Advance

30 pcs. 440 rubles, 120 pieces 850-900 rubles. Calcium citrate + carbonate 500 mg, vitamin D3 5 mcg - a complex drug designed to eliminate calcium deficiency and prevent conditions in adults and children from 12 years old. Contains calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper, boron, cholecalciferol. It is taken 1 t 2 times a day.

Marine calcium

100 pieces. 100 rub. Available in several variations - with magnesium, zinc, selenium, vitamin C, iodine. It belongs to the category of dietary supplements and acts as an additional source of these elements during pregnancy, lactation and menopause in women, intensive growth in adolescents, etc.

During the entire period of treatment, it is necessary to control the level of serum calcium - every week during the first month, then the multiplicity decreases.

Eggshell from lack of calcium in the body

Many traditional medicine sources promote consumption eggshell as a natural source of calcium. Indeed, the egg shell is 90% calcium. But research recent years showed that the digestibility of the element from the shell is very low, even when used with lemon or something else. Therefore, consider eggshells as an alternative balanced nutrition or therapeutic drugs, not worth it.

Sources give the following recipe for preparing eggshells: thoroughly washing and removing a thin inner film from it, the shell is dried and ground into powder. Take half a teaspoon a day with meals, adding a couple of drops lemon juice. The course is 1.5-2 months, once every six months.

Calcium for the elderly - myths and reality

As you know, the risk of developing osteoporosis increases many times in older people, and many, taking care of their health, increase the consumption of dairy products for sufficient calcium intake in the body. New Zealand scientists have questioned the need for a higher proportion of calcium to strengthen bones for people over 50 years old.

Mark Bolland, along with a team of researchers from the University of Auckland, analyzed 2 studies that looked at the effect of calcium on bone density. One of them covered the age group over 50 (13,790 people). As it turned out, the constant intake of calcium supplements and products with high content element increased bone density by only 1-2%.
Another study found a relationship between the incidence of bone fractures and calcium intake. More than 45,000 people participated in the survey. It turned out that regular intake of a macronutrient does not in any way reduce the likelihood of bone fracture.

Thus, the scientists concluded that there is no reason to take calcium supplements or switch to diets with high content there is no element in the products (at the same time, calcium should be supplied with food in daily requirement).

But sufficient physical activity, in particular, jumping for 2 minutes daily is good. preventive measure osteoporosis for the elderly. But let's not forget that this is just one study concerning a specific group of people without taking into account comorbidities and characteristics of the body. If a doctor recommends taking calcium supplements for confirmed hypocalcemia or a tendency to hypocalcemia, his recommendations should be followed.

Prevention of hypocalcemia

Prevention of this pathological condition For healthy people, who do not suffer from diseases that lead to Ca deficiency, consists in a number of elementary things that everyone can do.

Daily consumption of foods containing a sufficient amount of a macronutrient that can satisfy the daily need for it;
The use of foods rich in vitamin D, which ensures the transformation of Ca in the body and its better absorption (sour milk, vegetable oils, eggs, seafood, fish liver, fish fat, oatmeal, greens);
Prophylactic intake of vitamin D for children in the autumn-winter period (on the recommendation of a doctor);
Sufficient exposure to sunlight during safe hours, excluding the period from 12 to 15.00, which ensures the synthesis of vitamin D in the human body;
Periodic use of balanced vitamin-mineral complexes, but on the recommendation of a doctor and observing physiological dosages. Drug prevention of hypocalcemia is especially relevant for pregnant, lactating and elderly women;
Compliance with due physical activity, feasible sport.

Foods containing calcium

A nutritious diet with enough calcium is the best prevention and hypocalcemia, and diseases associated with a lack of a macronutrient. It is easy to calculate the proper consumption of certain products, knowing daily allowance and the amount of the element in 100 g of the product. There is a lot of calcium in dairy products, however, with age, their digestibility worsens, so you should not rely only on this source of the element. Also, a large amount of calcium is found in vegetables, seafood, nuts.

Some features related to the absorption of calcium

The digestibility of Ca from milk is only 30%;
Products plant origin characterized by 50% macronutrient digestibility;
The diet should be rich in foods containing vitamins D, C and magnesium;
Nicotine, alcohol, coffee, soda (especially cola), sausages, smoked meats contribute to Ca leaching and impair its absorption;
Salt also contributes to the removal of the macronutrient from the body and negatively affects the gastrointestinal mucosa, impairing absorption.
The average daily intake of calcium for an adult should be 1000-1500 mg. This amount is due to the fact that not all of the calcium listed in the food list is absorbed by the body.

What foods contain calcium - table (amount of calcium - mg per 100 g of product)

Dairy		Meat fish
Skimmed milk powder	1155	Sardines, canned	380
Cheese "Parmesan"	1300	Mackerel	240
Cheese "Dutch"	1040	Salmon family fish	210
Cheese "Cheddar", "Russian"	1000	Crabs	100
Cheese "Poshekhonsky"	900	Shrimps	90
Cheese "Swiss"	850	Oysters, anchovies	82
Roquefort cheese	740	Carp	50
Cream dry natural	700	Squid	40
goat cheese	500	Milk sausages	35
Brynza	530	Pike	20
processed cheese	520	Rabbit	19
Mozzarella	515	Chicken	17
Feta	360	Beef, lamb	10
Condensed milk	307	Beef liver, fatty pork	8
Soft cheese	260	pork fat	2
Simple yogurt	200	Vegetables, fruits, nuts
Fat cottage cheese	150	Sesame	780
Ice cream	140	Almond	230
fruit yogurt	136	Dill	208
Fatty kefir (3.5%), acidophilus, curdled milk, whole cow's milk	120	White beans	194
Liquid cream 10%	90	Hazelnut	170
Liquid cream 20%	86	brazil nuts, arugula	160
Sour cream, fat content 30%	85	Beans, figs	150
Mayonnaise 50%	57	Parsley	138
Butter sandwich	34	pistachios	130
Cream margarine	14	Walnut	122
Butter unsalted	12	Spinach	106
Grocery		Green onions, seeds, beans	100
Tea	495	Raisins, dried apricots	80
Chocolate white	280	Green salad	77
milk chocolate	220	Garlic, peanut	60
Coffee beans	147	red cabbage	53
Peas	89	red carrot	51
Barley grits	80	Turnip	49
Oat groats	64	White cabbage fresh, sauerkraut	48
Chicken egg (yolk)	55	Kohlrabi, yellow carrot	46
Cocoa	55	strawberries	40
Hercules	52	Radish	39
Rye flour	43	Beet	37
Wheat groats	27	radish	35
tomato paste	20	Grapefruit, orange, Brussels sprouts	34
Buckwheat, semolina	20	Onion	31
Pasta	19	Grape	30
Rice	8	Apricot	28
Honey	4	fresh mushrooms	27
Bakery products		Cauliflower, green peas, pumpkin	26
Bread black	100	Cucumber, green bean	22
Wheat grain bread	43	Peach, pear	20
Bun	21	apple, melon	16
Wheat bread	20	Eggplant	15
Juices, drinks		Ground tomato, watermelon	14
cocoa with milk	71	Potato	10
grape juice	20	Green pepper	8
Apple juice, tomato	7	Apple	7

With a number of disorders in the body, the bones begin to lose calcium. In this case, you must definitely take supplements and tablets with this element - pharmacies have a large selection of drugs.

The cheapest medicines with a mineral

Calcium deficiency is observed in a number of pathologies and different states. So, during pregnancy, the body of the fetus consumes a fairly high amount of the element, so a woman needs to increase its intake with food or medicine. In children, a mineral deficiency leads to a delay physical development, slow growth of bone tissue, frequent fractures.

In menopause, a lack of a mineral provokes the development of osteoporosis - the loss of bone substance and an increase in their fragility.

Most inexpensive drugs containing Ca are produced on the basis of . They are produced by almost all pharmaceutical companies and cost from 10 rubles per pack. Unfortunately, these drugs are poorly absorbed, so they cannot be considered effective. Without sufficient intake of vitamin D, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, Ca passes into an insoluble form and can be harmful - it is deposited in the joints and soft tissues.

Drugs containing additionally other elements are absorbed much better. List of the most inexpensive funds with Ca is:

For the prevention of bone tissue diseases, children under one year old are prescribed 400 ml of Ca / day, babies under 3 years old - 600 mg. From 3-10 years old, 800 mg is already required, adolescents - 1200 mg. In an adult, the dose is 800-1200 mg, in pregnant women and athletes - up to 1500 mg.

Calcium D3 Nycomed and Complivit

Often, experts advise buying Calcium D3 Nycomed. It is available in the following forms - tablets with 500 mg of the element and 200 IU of coliccalciferol (vitamin D3) and Forte tablets with an increased amount of coliccalciferol - 400 IU.

The drug has the following actions:

When taken orally, the drug may have a number of side effects- there are pains in the abdomen, allergies, diarrhea, skin itching. In old age, with kidney failure the dosage should be reduced, and with prolonged therapy, it is imperative to control the level of Ca in the blood, as well as the level of phosphorus. During lactation, other sources of the element that can enter the milk and into the body of the child should be taken into account. The price of the medicine is 370 rubles for 60 tablets.

Preparations with the mineral are contraindicated in hypercalcemia, kidney stones, active tuberculosis.

The medicine is cheaper - 200 rubles for 30 tablets, while it includes a similar number of components.

Among the indications is the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis (idiopathic, senile, menopausal, steroid). Also, the drug is indicated for other forms of Ca deficiency. Tablets are taken with meals from the age of 3 - 1-2 / day (the dose for children under 10 is selected individually).

Other means with element

On sale there is a whole list of medicines with a mineral substance. Most contain a fat-soluble vitamin or other complementary ingredients to aid mineral absorption:

Also on sale is Calcemin Advance, Calcepan and other dietary supplements and drugs against osteoporosis and other diseases.

Complex supplements and preparations for children

Any specialist will point out that taking an element in combination with other substances beneficial to the body is much more effective. It is not necessary that such drugs will cost more - there are drugs available for children and adults.

Before buying, it is important to take into account individual contraindications and evaluate additional components for the risk of allergies.

Adults can buy medicine Calcium D3 Meligen. In the composition, in addition to the main element, there is ascorbic acid, the entire vitamin group B, alpha-tocopherol, retinol, coliccalciferol, biotin. The dose of capsules / day is 3 pieces, the price for 100 pieces is 190 rubles. Also, adults are shown Magnesium-Calcium Doppelgerz, which includes both elements and coliccalciferol (260 rubles).

Babies are shown to drink the medicine Baby formula Bears with Ca in the form of chewable lozenges (300 rubles per pack for a month). Additionally, the composition contains natural flavors, Coconut oil, wax, natural dyes. The drug is designed with hypoallergenicity in mind, therefore it rarely causes allergies. Bears are very tasty, children like them and quickly fill the need for the necessary substances.

The human body, including a small one, contains various elements. They can be divided into three large groups: essential, macronutrients and micronutrients. Among the macronutrients, calcium is the most important - the “building material” that builds bones and teeth, and also helps to improve metabolism. Therefore, in children, the need for this element is very high.

If the child does not have enough calcium, then the following symptoms appear:

Bone pain, cramps;
excitability and imbalance;
the appearance of fatigue, weakness;
numbness of the fingers, cramping of the legs, especially the calves;
fragility, dry hair;
in infants - convulsions, muscle twitching, increased sweating at the back of the head, respiratory arrest.

Calcium deficiency is associated either with insufficient intake of it with food (lack of fermented milk products, an abundance of sweet, starchy foods), or with a child's illness. The element is poorly absorbed or washed out of the body when chronic diseases kidneys, liver, rheumatism, hormonal disorders.

IMPORTANT! A child needs the most calcium in the first 10 years of life. Continuous intake of the element lays the foundation for health for many years, preventing the onset of osteoporosis in adulthood.

Calcium must be supplied daily to the growing body of the child. Infants and toddlers under 5 years old need about 400-600 mg, younger students - about 1000 mg, teenagers - 1200-1300 mg.

Most of this useful element contains, as you know, milk and dairy products. Hard cheese is especially rich in calcium: a 50-gram piece contains 500-600 mg. A glass of milk contains a lot of calcium - at least 300 mg, but to meet the daily requirement, a baby needs to drink two glasses of milk, and a teenager - three glasses.

However, not all children can consume these products: some have milk protein intolerance, others have liver problems, others do not like cheese or drink milk poorly. In addition, not every family can afford the daily introduction of expensive hard cheese into the diet. In this case, children should definitely take calcium tablets, after consulting with a pediatrician.

What are calcium tablets for children

If for some reason a child is classified as a risk group and he has a calcium deficiency, then it is necessary to normalize the level of this important element with the help of drugs.

Pharmacies offer a large number of calcium tablets for children, and all this diversity can be divided into three large groups:

monopreparations;
combined preparations;
complex preparations.

When choosing a medicine, the characteristics of each group should be taken into account.

Medicinal preparations containing calcium without any additives are monopreparations. The element is present in the form of citrate, carbonate, gluconate or lactate.

It is believed that monopreparations have a lower absorption capacity, but this applies to gluconates and lactates. Calcium carbonate in large quantities is dangerous because it leads to a decrease in the acidity of the stomach, flatulence, and constipation. Citrate is absorbed very well, so it is preferred.

Medicines with calcium and another beneficial substance, such as vitamin D, are classified as combination drugs. The benefit of such tablets is due to the fact that vitamin D helps the child's body absorb calcium. This combination is especially effective in winter time when there is little sunshine.

IMPORTANT! Combined calcium preparations show high efficiency, however, in order to avoid overdose, the level of the element in the child's body should be monitored.

The combination of calcium with a set of different minerals and vitamins that promote its absorption are complex preparations. They can be, for example, with boron, zinc, manganese, magnesium, etc. However, the choice of the drug should be based on the results of the tests, existing diseases and the appointment of a pediatrician.

When buying tablets, it should be borne in mind that in pure form a tablet with calcium gluconate contains 9% calcium, and with calcium carbonate - 40%. Therefore, the dosage must be strictly observed.

Calcium tablets for children: pros and cons

If calcium tablets are used in accordance with the doctor's recommendations, then they will only benefit the child. It is as follows:

strengthen bones, teeth;
improve metabolic processes in organism;
normalizes heartbeat;
the work of the nervous system, pancreas and thyroid glands will improve;
vascular permeability will decrease;
formed skeletal system child.

However, like all medicines, these drugs can cause harm. It is caused by an overdose of this macronutrient, in which the deposition of kidney stones and constipation is possible. In addition, a systematic excess of it will lead to leaching of magnesium and other useful substances. And this will negatively affect the entire children's body.

Excess calcium during pregnancy can lead to intracranial hypertension in a child during intrauterine development, as well as to placental calcification, which will worsen the nutrition of the fetus in the womb.

Tablets for children have certain indications for use:

lack of an element in a child during a period of rapid growth;
signs of rickets;
hypoparathyroidism (violation of phosphorus-calcium metabolism as a result of hormonal disorders);
bleeding of various origins;
problems with the conduction of nerve signals;
loss of an element by the body, the cause of which is diarrhea, constant use of diuretics, antiepileptic drugs, juvenile rheumatoid (idiopathic) arthritis;
the presence of allergies;
fractures, the appearance of cracks in the bones;
tooth decay by caries;
osteoporosis.

Before you give your child calcium tablets, you should consider existing contraindications. Otherwise children's body can cause harm. Key contraindications for admission:

increased blood clotting;
excess calcium in the urine or blood, especially its plasma;
kidney stones;
the presence of granulomas, that is, diagnosed sarcoidosis;
the use of digoxin, strophanthin and other glycosides for the heart.

Prescribing drugs based on tests will only benefit the child, eliminating any harm.

How to take pills

Tablets intended for a child must be taken several times a day: a smaller dose in the morning (at 11-00), a larger one in the afternoon (for example, at 16-00 and 20-00). If you get a large amount of this substance at the same time, its absorption deteriorates significantly.

ATTENTION! Assimilation of calcium is best at night, so the evening intake of its preparations is so useful (around 7-8 hours).

In order for the benefits of taking the tablets to be greatest, it is also desirable to obtain vitamin D, K 2, as well as phosphorus and magnesium. These elements help each other, improving metabolism, and therefore, the child's body will receive them in greater quantities than when taken separately.

Despite constant growth, the child should not continuously take calcium. It is better to do this in courses, the duration and frequency of which is prescribed by a pediatrician or a pediatric specialist.

The course of treatment is usually a month, and the frequency depends on the indications: from one to two times a year. If the body is fully provided with this substance from the products, which is confirmed by analyzes, then the tablets are not needed.

It is necessary to take drugs at breakfast, lunch, dinner or during snacks (second breakfast, afternoon snack). At the same time, you should not eat foods containing oxalates (chocolate, cocoa, sorrel, black tea, beets, cabbage). This is due to the peculiarities of the chemical reactions of oxalates - an insoluble compound with this element is formed.

It is best to seize ear tablets from oily fish(herring, mackerel, salmon) or simply boiled fish. Useful combination - whole grain cereals, dairy products (cottage cheese and carrot casseroles, milk soups), chicken eggs. Doctors recommend taking the pill with plenty of water or a glass of diluted orange juice, sweet water with 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice.

The use of calcium tablets will allow the child's body to grow rapidly and fully develop. The main thing is that the medication should be prescribed after the examination and only if indicated.

Calcium is necessary for the health of any person, and especially for the fair sex. This is due to the fact that sex hormones are actively involved in the calcium cycle in the body, and after menopause their number decreases. Following it, bone density also decreases, and there is a tendency to fractures. How do we know if we are getting enough calcium?

Symptoms of calcium deficiency in women

The rate of calcium in the body of a woman depends on age and varies depending on the needs of growth or changes in bone tissue. Experts recommend the following average amounts of calcium per day:

0.7 g at the age of 1-3 years,
1 g at the age of 4-8 years,
1.3 g for ages 9-18,
1 g at the age of 19-50 years,
1.2 g for ages 51 and over.

During pregnancy and lactation, the norm increases to 1.5 g.

After 30 years female body gradually begins to lose bone density due to decreasing physical activity and hormonal changes, which are exacerbated during menopause. The lack of calcium in a woman's body can manifest itself in different ways. For example, tingling and numbness of the fingers may indicate a mild degree of hypocalcemia, and with a more severe mineral deficiency, involuntary muscle twitches and cramps are possible.

Chronic calcium deficiency can lead to neuropsychiatric symptoms such as depression, bad memory, thinking problems, insomnia.

Calcium deficiency can adversely affect electrical conductivity hearts. Symptoms may include arrhythmias (a feeling that the heart is skipping beats or beating too fast), shortness of breath, and swelling.

calcium deficiency in women well visible on the condition of the skin, nails and hair. On the part of the skin, dryness, itching can be observed. brittle nails and deterioration of the teeth are also symptoms of calcium deficiency. With a significant violation of calcium absorption, osteoporosis and a tendency to fractures develop, especially in older women.

5 calcium preparations for women

Preparations: Calcium Sandoz Forte, Calcium-D3 Nycomed, Calcium + Vitamin C, Ostalon Calcium-D, Veprena

Of course, the main amount of calcium we must consume with food. However, calcium does not always remain in the body even with sufficient intake. Moreover, it can be displayed faster than it should. All this suggests that it is important not only to take calcium for women after 50 years of age, the preparations must also contain additional substances - regulators of its metabolism. Let's look at a few popular medicines that can compensate for calcium deficiency.

There are contraindications, use after consulting a doctor

Calcium Sandoz Forte
Calcium in nature exists in the form of salts, which have different bioavailability. Effervescent tablets Calcium Sandoz Forte not only have a pleasant orange taste, they are specially thought out chemical composition calcium salts and excipients so as to ensure high absorption of calcium in the human intestine.

The drug is produced in France. There are tablets with calcium equivalent dosages of 0.5 and 1 g, which contain two calcium salts:
- carbonate (0.875 or 1.75 g),
- lactogluconate (1.132 or 2.263 g).
Packing cent 20 pcs. tablets of 0.5 g of calcium - from 311 to 365 rubles.
Calcium-D3 Nycomed
Popular calcium preparations for women based on a combination of calcium salt and vitamin D3. This vitamin is called "solar" because its synthesis occurs under the influence of ultraviolet rays. Its main function is to maintain optimal levels calcium and phosphorus in the blood. Similar combination active substances contained in Calcium-D3 Nycomed. It allows the body to effectively absorb incoming calcium.

Calcium carbonate in the preparation is 1.25 g, which is equivalent to 0.5 g of "pure" calcium, cholecalciferol (D3) - 200 IU. The drug is produced by the Norwegian company Nycomed in the form chewable tablets with mint and orange flavors. The cost of packing 20 tablets is in the range of 222-253 rubles. The company also produces Calcium-D3 Nycomed Forte, in which the concentration of vitamin D is increased by 2 times.
Calcium+Vitamin C
Calcium is not the only thing needed to prevent osteoporosis and other age-related disorders. Vitamin C is not synthesized in the human body, so the need for it is great. To replenish the normal balance of the vitamin and reduce the risk of calcium starvation, Calcium + Vitamin C from the Dutch company Natur Produkt will help.

It is available in the form of soluble effervescent tablets with a pleasant orange aroma, contains 0.18 g of vitamin C and 0.5 g of calcium carbonate. Pack of tablets 12 pcs. costs from 141 to 147 rubles.
Ostalon Calcium-D
According to experts, calcium-containing preparations for women over 50 should be prescribed in combination with bone metabolism regulators. In the modern pharmaceutical industry, there are just such combined drugs. One of them is Ostalon Calcium-D, which is produced by Gedeon Richter. The drug contains tablets of two types:
- calcium carbonate (1.578 g) + Vitamin D3 (400 IU) + Excipients,
- alendronic acid (70 mg) + excipients.
Normally, there is a dynamic balance between the processes of bone formation and its resorption (resorption). Alendronic acid belongs to bisphosphonates, substances that slow down the rate of bone resorption. The process of bone formation continuing against this background leads to an increase in its density, therefore Ostalon Calcium-D is prescribed in the treatment of osteoporosis. The cost of packaging is from 789 to 805 rubles.
Veprena
If we assume that best calcium for women, one that not only got into, but also assimilated in the body, then another type of antiresorptive drug should be considered. These are drugs with thyrocalcitonin, which stimulates the uptake of calcium by bone cells.

Age-related deficiency of calcitonin can also cause calcium deficiency in women. The domestic drug Veprena (Nativa LLC) will help replenish its supply. It is available as a nasal spray and contains 200 IU of salmon calcitonin and excipients. The cost of one bottle is from 1050 rubles. Veprena should be taken together with calcium-containing drugs.

Calcium preparations - comparative table

A drug	Active ingredients:	What is produced:	Manufacturer:
Calcium Sandoz Forte	Calcium carbonate, calcium lactogluconate 500mg or 1000mg each (calculated as pure calcium)	Effervescent tablets in a case of 10 or 20 pieces	France
Calcium D3 Nycomed	Calcium Carbonate + Colecalciferol (per 1 tablet 500 mg calcium (pure) + 0.005 mg (200 IU) vitamin D)	Chewable tablets (orange or mint) per: 20, 30, 50, 100 pcs per jar	Norway
Calcium + Vitamin C	Calcium carbonate + Ascorbic acid(1 tablet contains 500 mg of calcium + 180 mg of vitamin C)	Effervescent tablets in a case of 10 or 12 pieces	Netherlands
Ostalon Calcium-D	Calcium carbonate + Colecalciferol (1 tablet 1500mg calcium (pure) +400 IU vitamin D) + Alendronic acid (1 tablet 70mg)	Tablets of 2 types, 32 or 96 pcs.	Hungary
Veprena	Calcitonin (200 IU)	Nasal spray	Russia

Of course, this is far from complete list drugs that can normalize the balance of calcium in your body. However, it must be remembered that despite the importance and necessity, calcium overdose or improper intake can cause complications. It is believed that the upper limit of the daily intake of calcium for people over the age of 50 years is 2 g. Exceeding the dosage increases the risk of kidney stones. Medicines containing calcium metabolism regulators must be taken under medical supervision.