Lack of calcium: learn about the hidden signs that the body may present

Speaking to HuffPost, Stacie Stephenson, board member of the American Nutrition Association, says that headaches, mental fog and seemingly unexplained weakness are among the signs that can appear when mineral levels are inadequate.

Calcium is usually associated mainly with the maintenance of bones and teeth, but it participates in different functions of the body. It also plays an important role in muscle activity, the functioning of nerves and the heart.

Experts warn that, while nutrients such as vitamin B12, magnesium and probiotics have received more attention in recent years, adequate calcium intake should not be neglected.

According to the United States National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, the mineral is necessary for the normal functioning of muscles, nerves and the heart.

What are the signs of a lack of calcium?

Endocrinologist Damola Aje, co-director of a bone density program at Berkshire Medical Center, explains that the importance of calcium goes far beyond the skeleton.

"Calcium isn't just about bone health; it's essential for every cell in the body that needs to contract, signal or fire," he said.

According to the expert, muscles depend on the mineral to contract and relax, while nerves need it to transmit signals properly.

Maintaining adequate levels is also related to the prevention of osteoporosis and fractures, in addition to participating in mechanisms linked to blood pressure.

Among the most noticeable symptoms are muscle changes.

"When it comes to calcium deficiency, one of the most common signs is muscle symptoms, such as cramps, spasms, or contractions," explained Stacie Stephenson.

These manifestations can appear on the hands, legs or in the region around the mouth. Tingling or numbness in the fingers and near the lips may also appear.

Blood test may not reveal bone problems

Prolonged deficiency deserves attention because the body works to maintain blood calcium levels within an adequate range.

Damola Aje explains that, when necessary, the body can remove calcium from the bones to preserve the concentration of the mineral in the bloodstream. For this reason, a blood test may show a normal result even while there is progressive loss of calcium in bone tissue.

This process can increase, over time, the risk of loss of bone density, osteoporosis and fractures.

Calcium also participates in coagulation and cardiac function

The mineral is also involved in blood clotting and heart function.

According to Francesco Bajani, doctor and founder of CheckUP, important changes in calcium levels can compromise these mechanisms and be related to other complications.

Therefore, persistent symptoms such as muscle spasms, numbness, tingling, weakness or cognitive changes must be evaluated by a healthcare professional so that the cause can be correctly identified.

Five foods that should not be eaten raw

Cake batter, unpasteurized milk, ground meat, dried beans and some mushrooms may contain bacteria, toxins or compounds that are harmful to your health. Experts recommend proper cooking or pasteurization before consumption