WHICH FACTORS AFFECT CALCIUM ABSORPTION AND BONE MASS PRODUCTION?
In addition to a high intake of calcium, it is important to realize that there are factors that can increase or decrease the amount of calcium your body can absorb, as well as other factors that may help build or destroy bone. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium in the intestines. Without enough vitamin D in the diet, we would absorb less than 10% of the calcium we consume. Estrogen deficiency is associated with an increase in bone loss, which seems to be exacerbated by a low calcium diet. A diet high in calcium does not take the place of hormone replacement therapy (HRT); however, in addition to HRT, a diet sufficient in calcium has been shown to help reduce the risks of fractures. Exercise, especially weight-bearing exercise, stimulates the bones to grow stronger and denser. Immobilization has been associated with increased rate of bone loss and increased risk of fractures. Diets high in salt, animal protein, alcohol, caffeine, and excess aluminum (seen in antacid abuse) have bee
