Intake of proper food in right quantities coupled with sufficient vitamin supplements are the two major contributing factors that influence women’s heath and nutrition needs. Today, if you look at the major diseases or conditions that afflict women, especially older women, osteoporosis is one that afflicts almost 50 percent of women.

Osteoporosis is a condition where in the bones will lose its density and make the individual more prone to fractures. Osteoporosis is very common amongst women who are above 50 years of age.

The main cause or reason that triggers onset of osteoporosis in women is menopause. During the post menopausal stage, there will be a reduction in estrogen hormone that in turn robs the bones of their density thus making women more fragile and susceptible to fractures.

Hence, strengthening of the bone structure in elderly women has become a standard in women’s health and nutrition program and this could be achieved through intake of calcium supplements orally.

Contributing Factors of Calcium in Women’s Health

Calcium is one of the most important minerals in women’s health and nutrition, as it is directly involved in building the bone’s density. Your body system can absorb calcium into the body system from various calcium sources such as calcium carbonate and calcium citrate.

In order to maintain a good health, any efforts for better women’s health and nutrition should be started when women are young. A proper dosage of calcium with a balanced nutritional diet can help young women develop stronger bones that support them all through their life.

Calcium Dosage

A properly planned and sufficient calcium dosage can go a long way in improving the women’s health. The dosage of calcium is decided based on various factors and this will vary depending upon the individual and age.

For instance, women in the age group of 11 to 24 years will be requiring a daily dosage of 1200 to 1500 milligrams and those who are above the age of 25 but below 50 years should be given with a daily dosage of 1000 milligrams.

Women who have crossed the age of 50 years and not dependent on any hormonal treatments should be given with a dosage of 1500 milligrams a day. Further, the calcium dosage will have to be increased in case of pregnant or nursing women and the dosage will be in the range of 1200 to 1500 milligrams a day.

Calcium Rich Food Sources

When it comes to supply of calcium through food sources, then there are various options for receiving the required quantities of calcium from your regular diet. There is one school of thought that advocates intake of calcium only through food sources for efficiency.

Calcium is rich in all dairy products, but the attached negative rider is that many women may develop intolerance towards the lactose present in dairy products.

Therefore, women who are not willing to take dairy products can try other foods that are rich in calcium such as broccoli, shellfish, sardines, and almost all types of greens. Today, markets are even flooded with calcium-fortified orange juice that contains around 320 milligrams of calcium per glass.

Dietary Calcium Supplements

Calcium supplements have become an order of the day but at the same time it should be taken with certain precautions. An increased dose of calcium supplement may result in formation of kidney stones and may cause digestive tract malfunction. In few cases, the calcium supplement was known to cause adverse reactions if taken with other medications taken by women for their other health related issues.

Hence, while taking calcium supplements, it is better you consult your doctor and follow your doctor’s advice.