How to Treat Calcium Deficiency

Overview of Calcium Deficiency

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the human body, accounting for nearly 2% of total body weight. Most of it is stored in the bones, while smaller amounts are found in the teeth, blood plasma, soft tissues, and extracellular fluids. Calcium plays a vital role in maintaining bone health, supporting heart function, muscle activity, nerve signaling, and more. Children and adolescents typically have higher calcium levels than adults. A deficiency occurs when blood calcium levels fall below 8.8 mg/dL, with the normal range being 8.8–10.4 mg/dL.

Causes of Calcium Deficiency

Several factors can contribute to calcium deficiency, including:

• Hypoparathyroidism, which reduces the production of parathyroid hormone that regulates calcium levels.
• Malabsorption syndromes that prevent the body from absorbing nutrients properly.
• Intolerance to calcium-rich foods.
• Abnormal magnesium levels (either too high or too low).
• Malnutrition or poor dietary habits.
• Vitamin D deficiency, which impairs calcium absorption in the intestines.
• Elevated phosphate levels in the blood (hyperphosphatemia).
• Certain medications such as corticosteroids, phenytoin, phenobarbital, and rifampin.
• Low estrogen levels, particularly after menopause.
• Pancreatitis and septic shock.
• Partial or complete removal of the parathyroid glands.
• Strict vegan diets lacking in dairy products.
• Genetic factors.

Symptoms of Calcium Deficiency

Calcium deficiency might not cause symptoms in its early stages. However, as it progresses, some signs may include:

• Numbness or tingling in the face and limbs.
• Brittle or weak nails.
• Increased risk of bone fractures.
• Muscle cramps or spasms.
• Slow hair growth.
• Memory loss and confusion.
• Hallucinations and depression.

Diagnosing Calcium Deficiency

A proper diagnosis involves reviewing the patient’s medical and family history, checking for symptoms, and conducting blood tests to measure total calcium and albumin levels — the latter being a protein that binds to calcium and helps transport it through the bloodstream.

Treatment for Calcium Deficiency

1. Dietary Calcium

One of the most effective ways to treat calcium deficiency is by increasing dietary intake. Recommended sources include:

• Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt.
• Canned salmon and sardines (with bones).
• Leafy greens like broccoli and kale.
• Almonds and sesame seeds.
• Fortified foods such as cereals and orange juice.
• Other sources: beans, dandelion greens, soy milk, ground eggshell (used with caution), seaweed, and figs.

Note: Vegetables high in oxalic acid, such as spinach and beet greens, may reduce calcium absorption.

2. Calcium Supplements

Before starting any supplement, it's crucial to consult a healthcare provider to avoid risks like kidney stones. Some common supplements include:

• Calcium carbonate – cost-effective but requires stomach acid for absorption.
• Calcium citrate – easier to absorb and ideal for older adults or those with low stomach acid.
• Calcium phosphate – less likely to cause constipation and generally well absorbed.

3. Calcium Injections

In cases of severe deficiency or when oral supplementation is ineffective, calcium injections may be administered under medical supervision. Improvements are typically observed within a few weeks of treatment.

Recommended Daily Calcium Intake

Calcium strengthens bones during childhood and maintains their density through early adulthood. Bone density peaks between ages 20–25, making calcium intake crucial before that age. Women, especially postmenopausal, require higher amounts than men.

• Adults: 1,000 mg/day
• Women over 51: 1,200 mg/day

Recommended intake by age:

The Role of Vitamin D in Calcium Absorption

Vitamin D is essential for effective calcium absorption. The body produces it when exposed to sunlight, but people with darker skin may need supplements due to lower synthesis levels. Dietary sources include egg yolks, salmon, fortified milk, and certain mushrooms.