Symptoms of Calcium Deficiency - hypocalcemia

Calcium plays a key role in the maintenance of strong and healthy bones, it also helps in blood clotting, early developmental growth and muscle contraction and relaxation. This mineral can be easily obtained from natural food sources like leafy vegetables, yogurt, nuts, and cheese. But most Indians (particularly in the age group of 14-20 years) suffer from calcium deficiency due to lack of efficient absorption. Here are some signs and symptoms of calcium deficiency you need to be aware of.

Symptoms of  calcium deficiency ( hypocalcemia): -

Muscle cramps in calcium deficiency ( hypocalcemia): -

Despite an adequate level of hemoglobin and sufficient water intake, if you suffer from recurring muscle cramps, you could have low calcium levels. Muscle cramps followed by muscle aches, especially in the thighs and calf muscles, is an early indication of low calcium levels. To load up your calcium intake, include these 12 calcium-rich foods in your diet without fail.

Lowered bone density  in calcium deficiency ( hypocalcemia): - 

Calcium is required for mineralization of bones to keep them strong as you grow old. Therefore, low calcium levels directly affect bone density and increase susceptibility to osteoporosis and fractures.

Brittle nails  in calcium deficiency ( hypocalcemia): -

Like your bones, your nails also need calcium deposits for maintaining their integrity. Lack of adequate levels of calcium could make your nails extremely weak and susceptible to breaks. You can try these 9 kitchen ingredients to strengthen brittle nails.

Toothache:

 Around 99% calcium present in your body is stored in your bones and teeth. Naturally, if your calcium levels drop, you’ll be susceptible to a toothache and decay. Also, you’ll be at a greater risk of suffering from periodontal disease. In children, calcium deficiency has been linked to delayed and defective teething.

Premenstrual cramps in calcium deficiency ( hypocalcemia): -

Women suffering from calcium deficiency have to go through a lot of pain during their menstruation. The exact mechanism by which calcium could be relieving menstrual pain is not yet clear but its role in muscle contraction and relaxation seem to be crucial. Apart from pre-menstrual cramps, calcium deficiency is also linked to irregular menstruation and excessive bleeding in women. Calcium is also involved in the normal development of the uterus and ovarian hormones in women.
Also Read- Natural Remedies of Menstrual cramp

Frequent illness: 

Calcium seems to play an important role in maintaining a healthy immune system as well. It has been observed that those deficient in calcium are more likely to acquire common respiratory and intestinal infections. Deficiency of calcium reduces the body’s resistance against pathogen attack. 

Depression  in calcium deficiency ( hypocalcemia): -

Depression is also a symptom of calcium deficiency. Due to lack of calcium many body low immunity and lack of nourishing foods.

Fatigue in calcium deficiency ( hypocalcemia): -

Bone and muscle aches generally cause weakness in calcium-deficient people. But low calcium levels are also linked to insomnia, fear and mental derangements that increase stress and fatigue. You may look pale and feel tired or lazy all the time. Fatigue is also a common symptom in women who develop calcium deficiency after childbirth. They are more likely to suffer from lack of breast milk, poor concentration and extreme tiredness. Therefore, it is advisable that pregnant women should get a regular supply of 1000-1200 mg calcium every day.

Also Read: Vitamin D source and Functions in Details