1. Calcium for Bone Health

Calcium is an important component for cute and healthy bones. 99% of calcium in the human body is stored in the bones, teeth, with calcium being the largest quantity metal in the body. The other 1% is in the blood and plays an important function in muscle contraction, nerve function, and blood clotting.

At childhood and teenage years, the body is taking calcium with the fastest rate for bone mass formation. But as people grow older between ages, generally beyond 30, bone mass starts to decrease. In postmenopausal women, this process is magnified due to the loss of estrogen, which is involved in maintaining bone density. This leads to increased risk of osteoporosis among older adults.

2. Dietary Sources of Calcium

The question is whether calcium supplements are needed before dietary considerations. One can get a sufficient amount of calcium through a well-balanced diet containing calcium-rich foods. -Dairy: milk, cheese and yogurts.

-Green leafy vegetables: kale, broccoli, spinach.

-Foods fortified with vitamin D: orange juice, cereals and plant-based milk alternatives.

-Bones that are edible: sardine and salmon.

Several elderly people may not be able to obtain adequate amounts of calcium through their diets, for a worsened appetite, dental problems, or not having sufficient access to nutritional foods. However, in those cases calcium supplements may be suggested.

3. Calcium Needs of Older Adults

Calcium intake requirements depend on age and gender. The RDA for both men and women 51 and older is 1,200 mg per day. Nevertheless, too much calcium is harmful; it causes kidney stones, cardiovascular diseases, etc. Hence, make sure to check with your health care provider for the correct dosage.

4. Possible Risks and Side Effects

Calcium supplements are helpful it may be dangerous as well. High calcium levels in the blood, known as hypercalcemia, can be caused by too much calcium in your diet, especially when the excess is from supplementation. Symptoms of too much calcium in the blood can include nausea, vomiting, constipation and confusion. In extreme situations, it may possibly result in kidney stones, cardiovascular problems, and even kidney failure.

In addition to this, there is also some evidence that calcium from supplements may heighten the risk of cardiovascular events. Despite this, the evidence isn't definitive, and additional studies would be needed to ascertain whether or not long-term calcium supplementation is harmful to the cardiovascular system.

To sum up, calcium plays an important role in elderly bone health, but whether calcium supplements are necessary varies from person to person depending on dietary calcium intake and health status. Meeting calcium needs through a balanced diet that includes sources of calcium is always the best choice. But for those who are unable to satisfy their demand for calcium only with their diet, calcium supplements (together with vitamin D) can perhaps be of help. It should be taken under the supervision of a doctor to ensure proper dosing and examination for possible side effects. A tailored calcium supplementation is a strategy that elderly can increase their chances to have a healthy bone and find a balance-and be safe from osteoporosis and its subsequent fracture.