Calcium Deficiency
Bruised Bones, Tired Body: All You Need To Know About Calcium Deficiency
Calcium deficiency can affect people of any age or gender. Calcium plays a vital role in building and maintaining healthy bones, which is why it’s so important to understand the causes, symptoms, and treatments for this condition.
What is Calcium Deficiency?
Calcium deficiency occurs when there isn’t enough of the mineral in the body. This can be caused by a variety of factors such as poor diet, inadequate absorption, certain medications, and certain medical conditions. People with calcium deficiency often experience weakened bones, leading to fractures and broken bones, as well as fatigue and other symptoms.
Causes of Calcium Deficiency
- Poor diet – a diet lacking in calcium-rich foods such as dairy, tofu, and leafy green vegetables can lead to calcium deficiency.
- Inadequate absorption – certain medical conditions, such as celiac disease, can impair calcium absorption, leading to deficiency.
- Certain medications – such as glucocorticoids can affect calcium absorption and lead to calcium deficiency.
Symptoms
Calcium deficiency can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
- Weak, brittle bones
- Bone fractures and breaks more easily
- Muscle cramps
- Weakness and fatigue
- Numbness and tingling in the hands and feet
- Abnormal heart rhythms
- Insomnia and difficulty sleeping
- Depression
Diagnosis and Treatment
The first step in treating calcium deficiency is to visit your doctor to get a proper diagnosis. Your doctor may recommend a blood test to check your calcium level and determine whether or not you have a calcium deficiency.
If a calcium deficiency is found, your doctor may recommend taking calcium supplements or increasing your intake of calcium-rich foods such as dairy products, leafy green vegetables, or tofu. Additionally, your doctor may recommend certain lifestyle changes to ensure that you are getting adequate amounts of calcium, such as:
- Exercise regularly
- Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption
- Avoid excess amounts of caffeine
- Reduce stress levels
Treating calcium deficiency can help treat the symptoms and protect your bones from further damage. Speak to your doctor for advice on how to best manage your calcium deficiency.