Did you know that: The human body contains just over 1 kilogram of calcium stored in the bones and teeth, and in much smaller amounts distributed throughout the blood and various tissues. 99% of the total organic calcium is found in the bones, where it exists in the form of a complex salt, hydroxyapatite, which gives them their characteristic hardness. Calcium is a mineral that gives strength to your bones and is necessary for carrying out many functions in the body, such as blood coagulation, and the functioning of nerves and muscles. During the teenage years (particularly between the ages of 11-15), your bones grow rapidly. Nearly half of all bones are formed during these years. You store calcium in your body so that your skeleton remains strong later in life. If your body does not get the calcium it needs through your diet, it will take calcium from the only source it has: YOUR BONES. As a consequence, this can lead to developing brittle bones later in life and broken bones at any time. This macromineral is the fourth component in the body after water, proteins, and fats. Total body calcium is approximately 1150 grams, and it is concentrated almost 90% in bones and teeth.

The calcium in the body increases until the end of the growth period (around 30 years), but afterwards, the exchange with the outside remains intense, resulting in a constant elimination of it, which must be replenished from calcium obtained from food.

Calcium participates in coagulation, in the correct permeability of membranes and, at the same time, takes on fundamental importance as a nervous and neuromuscular regulator, modulating muscle contraction (including heart rate), intestinal absorption and secretion, and hormone release. It is mainly found in dairy products, nuts, sardines, and anchovies, and in smaller amounts in legumes and dark green vegetables (spinach, chard, broccoli). Calcium is also closely linked to the presence of phosphorus, as the lack or excess of either of these two macrominerals can affect the absorption of the other.

The absorption of calcium is hindered by the consumption of coffee, alcohol, lack of Vitamin D, lack of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, lack of exercise, and stress. An obvious indicator of calcium deficiency is osteoporosis.

The calcium from food is absorbed in the upper part of the small intestine (duodenum and proximal jejunum), and only 20% to 30% of the ingested calcium is absorbed, although during growth periods, pregnancy, and lactation, it can reach up to 40 percent.

Calcium-rich Cooking Recipes

To help maintain stable calcium levels, here are some recommended cooking recipes. Take note.  

Stuffed Tomatoes with Tuna and Pasta	Baked Noodles with Tuna	Rice Pudding with Orange
Cheesecake with Strawberries	Eggplant and Goat Cheese Terrine	Cream Cheese Frosting