6 warning signs of calcium deficiency that you need to look out for

Ever had your mom force you to drink a tall glass of milk? Well, it was a daily routine for most kids and you might have hated it but the thing is that milk is one of the major sources of calcium. Your mom just wanted to make sure you have excellent bone health and are safe from calcium deficiency!

Calcium is extremely important for our overall health and there’s no doubt that being calcium deficient can result in multiple ailments.

Calcium deficiency can lead to tooth decay, osteoporosis, rickets and some other serious diseases. Hence, identifying and treating this deficiency at the right time is important. For that, you need to know calcium deficiency symptoms.

Also, read: Dear women, you need to eat more calcium RN for a healthier future. Here’s why

So, here are six signs that your body needs more calcium:

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1. Muscle spasm
Apart from maintaining good bone health, calcium plays a major role in muscle movements. When you lack calcium in your body, the normal functioning of your muscles is disrupted. You can notice this disruption in the form of muscle spasm, twitching, or pain under your thighs and arms. In fact, disruption in muscle movement is one of the most common signs of calcium deficiency.

2. Disrupted heart rhythm
When the calcium levels in your body are low, the heart muscles do not function properly. The contraction of heart muscles is not in rhythm with your heartbeat. This causes an abnormal heart rhythm. However, this is more serious and happens only when the calcium level in your body drops really low.

3. Feeling of fatigue and tiredness
Researchers from a study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology found that a structure called the sarcoplasmic reticulum(SR) present in your muscle cells is responsible for the release of calcium. When calcium is not released properly, your muscles feel week. As a result, you feel fatigued and tired. The researchers also found that consumption of caffeine can help in the release of calcium from the SR.

4. Brittle nails
One of the most common and early symptoms of calcium deficiency is brittle nails. If your nails break easily, are prone to chipping, or don’t grow out properly, it could mean that you lack calcium.

5. Aggravated PMS
A study published in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology Science found that the participants reported better mood and lesser bloating when they took calcium supplements for two months. If you are suffering from severe PMS, it could mean you’re deficient in calcium.

6. Poor dental health
Calcium is one of the key factors when it comes to healthy teeth. Hence, a lack of it can cause poor dental health. When your body lacks calcium, it tends to draw it from your teeth, making it prone to tooth decay. Moreover, it can also cause weak roots and irritated gums.

So, if you’ve been experiencing some of these symptoms, it is best that you see a doctor and figure out how you can raise your calcium levels.