Do You Need More Calcium?
By Sara Butler
Your body needs calcium to build strong bones and muscles, but what happens if you're not getting enough? Here are a few signs that your calcium intake is less than ideal and steps you can take to easily add more calcium to your diet every day.
You Get Muscle Cramps - A Lot
Are you often sound asleep when a muscle cramp in your leg wakes you up? If so, you might need more calcium.
Calcium is an essential nutrient your muscles need to properly contract and relax, along with potassium. When it comes to cramping, you probably need to reach for a glass of milk over a banana to help your muscles relax and return to normal. Plus, if you make sure to get enough calcium all the time, then you don't need to worry about muscle cramps waking you up from that awesome dream you were having.
You Don't Get Enough Vitamin D
Vitamin D and calcium go hand in hand. That's because your body needs Vitamin D to properly absorb calcium from the foods you eat. If you don't get enough then chances are you're not getting enough calcium either.
Getting outside in the sun for just a few minutes each day can help your body to produce its own Vitamin C, but you can also get it from foods such as salmon or other fatty fish.
You Eat Too Much Meat
A high-protein diet is really popular these days but it's important to understand that going high-protein may mean you're missing out on important nutrients -- nutrients just like calcium. Make sure to include leafy green vegetables in your high protein diet to help bring some much-needed calcium to the table.
Your Teeth Aren't Strong
If you're getting a lot of cavities, then it may be because you're not getting enough calcium. This is due to the fact that when you don't get enough calcium your body starts to take it from other places -- like your teeth and bones. This can make teeth more vulnerable to decay and other problems.
Your Nails and Skin Are Suffering
Your skin and nails are a good indication of how healthy you are. If you have broken, dry, and brittle nails, then it could be a sign that you're just not getting enough calcium. Skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis can also be linked to not getting enough calcium.
Calcium is crucial to your continued good health. If you're worried you're not getting enough, discuss it with the chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Los Angeles, Calif.