The role of calcium in diseases

In this article, researchers from La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology in California and Wuhan Sports University in China reviewed the key mechanisms of calcium homeostasis in the human body. They also discussed various diseases associated with the dysfunctional regulation of calcium. Their review was published in the journal of Food Science and Human Wellness.

• The human body has copious amounts of calcium.
• Calcium is involved in numerous physiological and pathological processes.
• The key mechanisms involved in calcium homeostasis are calcium sensing receptor regulation, intestinal calcium absorption, renal calcium reabsorption, and bone calcium resorption.
• Dietary calcium and vitamin D play important roles in diseases associated with dysfunctional regulation of calcium.
• Low calcium intake or low vitamin D levels can cause bone diseases.
• High calcium intake can reduce the risk of breast cancer, the rate of bone loss, and the incidence of bone fracture.
• On the other hand, consumption of too much calcium can increase the risk of acute gastrointestinal events, kidney stone, myocardial infarction, and stroke.

The researchers believe that the dietary intake and supplementation of calcium should depend on the health status of individuals for them to get the maximum benefits and avoid serious diseases.

Read the full study at this link.

Journal reference:

Pu F, Chen N, Xue S. CALCIUM INTAKE, CALCIUM HOMEOSTASIS AND HEALTH. Food Science and Human Wellness. March 2016;5(1):8-16. DOI: 10.1016/j.fshw.2016.01.001