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calcium

Definition

Calcium is a mineral that is essential for many bodily functions. It is the most abundant mineral in the human body, making up about 1.5-2% of total body weight. Most of the calcium in the body is stored in the bones and teeth, where it provides structural support and helps to prevent fractures. However, calcium is also important for other functions, such as muscle contraction, blood clotting, and nerve transmission.

Calcium in bones and teeth

The recommended daily intake (RDI) of calcium for adults is 1,000 milligrams (mg) for women and 1,200 mg for men. However, some people may need more calcium, such as pregnant women, breastfeeding women, and people with certain health conditions.

There are many good sources of calcium in the diet, including dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and some fortified foods. Dairy products are the best source of calcium, as they provide a high amount of calcium in a bioavailable form. 

Other good sources of calcium include:

  • Dairy products: milk, yoghurt, cheese, kefir
  • Dairy products
  • Leafy green vegetables: broccoli, kale, collard greens, bok choy
  • Leafy green vegetables
  • Fortified foods: orange juice, cereal, tofu, soy milk
  • Fortified foods
  • Nuts and seeds: almonds, sesame seeds, tahini
  • Nuts and seeds

If you are not getting enough calcium from your diet, you may need to take a calcium supplement. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking a calcium supplement, as too much calcium can be harmful.

Calcium deficiency can lead to a number of health problems, including:

  • Osteoporosis: a condition in which the bones become weak and brittle, increasing the risk of fractures
  • Rickets: a condition in which the bones do not develop properly, leading to bowed legs and other deformities
  • Tooth decay: calcium is important for the health of teeth, so a deficiency can lead to tooth decay
  • It is important to make sure that you are getting enough calcium every day to maintain good health.

How can the word be used?

The water in this area is naturally high in calcium.

calcium

Different forms of the word

Noun: Calcium.

Adjective: Calcareous.

Verb: To calcify.

Adverb: Calcifically.

Plural: calcium.

Etymology

The word "calcium" comes from the Latin word "calx" (genitive calcis), which means "lime" or "limestone". The Latin word "calx" is thought to be derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *kalk-, which also means "lime".

Question

Why is calcium important to humans?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Why is calcium important for the structure of bones and teeth?

Answer:

Calcium is important for the structure of bones and teeth because it is a major component of bone mineral. Bone mineral is a mixture of calcium, phosphate, and other minerals that gives bones their strength and hardness. Calcium is also important for the formation of teeth. Teeth are made up of a hard outer layer called enamel, which is made up of calcium and other minerals.

Without enough calcium, bones and teeth can become weak and brittle. This can lead to conditions such as osteoporosis and tooth decay.