The Dangers of a Low Calcium Diet

Despite the fact that calcium is readily available in a variety of foods and in supplement form, many people put their health at risk by eating a low calcium diet. Work, school obligations, and personal responsibilities are extremely time-consuming, which means many families do not have the time or inclination to buy and prepare the range of healthy foods necessary to ensure adequate calcium intake. Dieters tend to cut dairy - the foods highest in calcium - out of their daily menu. Most vegans avoid dairy products completely, and the more restricted the diet, the lower the intake of calcium through food. In addition, heavy alcohol and tobacco use can diminish calcium levels in the body.

In order to prevent the health problems that can result from a low calcium diet, anyone on a restricted diet needs to be extra vigilant about including sufficient sources of calcium in their diet. In addition to dairy products, whole grains, fish, and broccoli are excellent sources of calcium. A calcium supplement is recommended for almost everyone, especially from the age of 30 years on.

Risks Associated with Low Calcium Levels

Low calcium levels in the body can lead to a variety of problems. Osteoporosis is the most well known disease associated with calcium deficiency. It typically strikes women over the age of 55 years, although men are also susceptible. Osteoporosis is a brittle bones disease that causes bones to break easily. However, it is not only the elderly who need to make sure they get enough calcium. Children who eat a low calcium diet will have soft bones that are more likely to break, and are less likely to properly develop enamel on their teeth, which places them at high risk for dental problems later in life. They are also not building the bone mass and calcium stores they will need later in life.

Hypocalcaemia is a potentially life-threatening condition caused by calcium deficiency in the blood. The earliest sign is tingling in the fingers and toes, possibly accompanied by tightening of the muscles and muscle cramps. Tendon reflexes can be hyperactive. If the hypocalcaemia is allowed to continue, the vision can be affected, the hair and skin will become dry, fingernails and toenails will become brittle, and the patient will suffer from chronic fatigue.

With so many health risks associated with a low calcium diet, it is vital to take a calcium supplement if the recommended daily intake of calcium is not being met through diet alone.