What Decreases Calcium Absorption?

Calcium is an essential mineral that is very important for good health. It can be obtained from a variety of foods such as dairy and leafy greens. However, not all calcium is absorbed into the body, as there are many factors that can potentially decrease the calcium absorption, causing the calcium to be excreted from the body without being absorbed. Therefore, it is important to know the factors that decrease calcium absorption in order to avoid them.

Some of the common inhibitors include caffeine, alcohol, excess salt, saturated fats and stress. A lack of certain nutrients such as vitamins D and E, magnesium and silicon can also reduce the calcium absorption.

Caffeine not only decreases calcium absorption, but it also increases the rate at which it is expelled from the body. Alcohol also decreases the absorption, as it interferes with the production of vitamin D, which increases the absorption.

A diet that is high in sodium, saturated fats and proteins has been shown to decrease the absorption. In addition, saturated fats contribute to an acidic environment, which also has a negative effect. However, moderate amounts of healthy fats and proteins are essential for helping with the absorption. In general excess amounts of any type of acidic foods can hinder the intake of calcium.

Another factor that decreases calcium absorption is age. The rate of absorption is highest among children, and gradually decreases with age. Therefore, the elderly are encouraged to have a slightly higher intake of calcium. However, the amount of calcium that is consumed in a dose can also affect how much of it gets absorbed. Larger dosages are not absorbed as well as when the dosage is broken down into several smaller dosages.

Phytic acid and oxalic acid are also said to reduce the amount that is absorbed. These acids are present in plant-based foods, and have been shown to decrease the amount of calcium that is present in milk. However, plant based foods also contain nutrients that promote calcium absorption. Therefore, plant-based foods can still provide the body with good amounts of calcium.

One of the female hormones known as estrogen can also impact the absorption. According to studies, low levels of this hormone can result in insufficient absorption of calcium. Any type of stress, whether physical or emotional stimulates the production of a hormone known as cortisol. This hormone tends to bind itself to the calcium and prevents it from being absorbed efficiently.

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