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Calcium requirements and recommended dietary allowances
Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology
|December 1, 1985
Summary
Calcium is vital for metabolism, nerves, and bone health. Many groups, especially elderly women in the US, have insufficient calcium intake, increasing osteoporosis risk and necessitating increased dietary calcium.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Human Physiology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Calcium is crucial for metabolic processes, neuromuscular function, and bone health.
- Calcium influences enzyme activity in cellular metabolism and differentiation.
- Dietary calcium recommendations vary globally, with lower intakes often observed in Japan compared to the US.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the essential role of calcium in various physiological functions.
- To examine variations in calcium intake across different age groups and countries.
- To address the specific issue of low calcium intake in elderly women and its link to osteoporosis.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on calcium's role and dietary intake patterns.
- Comparison of recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) and median intakes in different populations.
- Analysis of factors affecting calcium absorption, excretion, and balance.
Main Results:
- Median calcium intake in the US declines after adolescence, with adult women consuming less than recommended levels.
- Calcium requirements for balance vary significantly based on age, sex, diet, and hormonal status.
- Dairy products are identified as a primary source of bioavailable calcium.
Conclusions:
- Elderly women in the US exhibit a median calcium intake significantly below the RDA (60%).
- This low intake, coupled with high susceptibility to osteoporosis, indicates a need for increased calcium consumption in this demographic.
- Optimizing calcium intake is essential for maintaining bone health and overall physiological function.