What Role Does Calcium Play In Our Body?
Calcium performs numerous functions in our body. It uses more than 90 percent of the calcium to keep your bones and teeth strong, thereby, supporting skeletal function and structure. The rest of the calcium is utilised in blood clotting, muscle contraction, nerve function and cell signalling. The body cells use up calcium for various functions of the body. It also plays the key role in maintaining a regular heartbeat.(Also Read: 6 Foods That Contain More Calcium Than A Glass Of Milk)
What Happens To Your Body When You Are Calcium Deficient?
It is not only calcium deficiency that can affect your health; but also the deficiency of vitamin D, phosphorus and magnesium, all of which help in calcium absorption. Here are a few reasons as to why you can become calcium deficient.
- Old age
- Menopause
- Poor absorption of calcium in the body
- Medications
- Inadequate consumption of calcium-rich foods
Symptoms of calcium deficiency
- Muscle cramps
- Dry skin
- Brittle nails
- Tooth decay
- Late puberty
- PMS symptoms
- Tooth decay
- Insomnia
In most cases, you may also suffer from diseases like osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure.
Here are some calcium-rich fruits that may help you load up on this mineral without really having to only depend on dairy products.
1. Apricots
Out of the many calcium-rich fruits, apricots top the list. Include more apricots in your diet by adding them to your salads and breakfast cereals or just enjoy them as it is.
2. Kiwi
Not only are kiwis rich in vitamin C, but calcium content that is beneficial for the body. The tropical fruit is said to have about 60 milligrams of calcium. Make sure you eat the fruit or gulp down a glass of kiwi juice.
3. Oranges
Who wouldn't like oranges? We often consume them without knowing how beneficial they are. Oranges are also one of the best sources of calcium after vitamin C.
4. Berries
Blackberries, strawberries and raspberries are a few fruits that are good sources of calcium. Toss them in your salads or eat them fresh. They are known to contain more than 20 milligrams of calcium each.
5. Pineapples
Pineapples are great fruits; however, may not be recommended to diabetics. These juicy fruits are said to be loaded with calcium along with other vitamins and minerals.
6. Litchi
Litchi may have the least amount of calcium, but when tossed with a fruit-bowl, it will only help add up to the mineral content.
7. Papaya
Papaya contains a generous amount of calcium; it is said to have about 20 milligram per 100 grams of servings. Whether you eat it raw or cooked, it makes for a super healthy fruit.
The calcium-rich fruits not only promise you a load-up on calcium but also will ensure a healthy life. Most of these fruits are quite sweet; if you are a diabetic, make sure you consult a doctor.