Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body, with over 99 per cent of it concentrated in our bones and teeth, but it is also found in the heart, nerves and blood clotting mechanism, so it’s vital for the optimum function of the body.

We all know that a calcium deficiency can result in rickets and an increased risk of bone weakness and fracture, but its benefits also extend to reducing high blood pressure, kidney stones, premenstrual syndrome and it has also proved beneficial in the treatment of colorectal cancer.

While adequate supplies of calcium are necessary at all stages of life, particularly the growing stage, women often they find they need increased consumption of calcium, either through supplements or IV therapy, during the menopause to combat the associated symptoms.

As we age, our levels of calcium are depleted as we expel it from the body through the waste processes. However, women of menopausal age are of increased risk as declining oestrogen levels affect levels of calcium, resulting in the most worrying side effect of the menopause; osteoporosis.

How much calcium do I need a day?

The UK government recommend a daily intake of 700 mg of calcium, but 1,200 mg for those suffering from osteoporosis. However, as a preventative measure, The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends that women under age 50 get 1,000 mg of calcium per day and women over age 50 consume 1,200 mg of calcium per day.

Where can I get calcium from?

As with all vitamins and minerals, you should receive the necessary amounts from your diet. For calcium, dairy products such as milk, cheese and yogurt are the main sources, but other calcium-rich foods include leafy greens, fruit, beans, lentils, nuts and seafood.

However, there are certain lifestyle and environmental factors that restrict the amount of calcium we gain from our diet, which can require you gaining additional calcium from either supplements or through intravenous therapy. Menopausal women who are lactose intolerant or are vegetarian should also consider gaining calcium from other sources.

We also need vitamin D to help the absorption of calcium as low levels of this valuable vitamin can impact on our calcium intake. This is why many of our IV drips at IV Boost UK combine these two nutrients for maximum effect.

Call IV Boost UK on 020 3095 0002 to find out more.