Two out of three Hungarian adults are at risk of calcium deficiency, even though the solution could not be more natural

By: Trademagazin Date: 2024. 10. 03. 11:04

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One of the most important minerals in our body is often underestimated, even though it is essential for maintaining the health of bones, teeth and muscles. Our body cannot produce calcium, so we have to supplement it from external sources. Since a significant part of the Hungarian population suffers from a calcium deficiency, Zsuzsanna Szűcs, president of the National Association of Hungarian Dietitians, not only draws attention to the fact that the lack of the mineral can lead to serious health problems, but also to the natural ways in which we can ensure calcium replacement in our bodies.

The importance of calcium in everyday life

Calcium is the most abundant element in our body, accounting for 1.5-2 percent of our total weight. It is mainly stored in the bones and is essential for the normal growth, development and strength of bones and teeth. In addition, it plays a role in many biological functions, such as muscle function, the transmission of nerve signals, blood clotting, the functioning of the immune system, and is also responsible for maintaining the appropriate pH value of our body.

Since calcium is essential for the optimal functioning of our body, it is essential that its concentration is always appropriate. Our body is not able to produce it by itself, so we have to supplement the recommended 950 mg of calcium per day on average for adults from external sources – but, for example, in adolescence, a higher amount is needed. If we do not get enough calcium, our body begins to extract it from the bone structure in order to be able to maintain proper cell function. The president of the National Association of Hungarian Dietitians points out that almost two-thirds of the adult population in Hungary1, 58 percent of men over 25 years of age, while 61 percent of women suffer from calcium deficiency. In the case of the younger age group, we cannot speak of much better rates either, 42 percent of 1-3-year-olds, 32 percent of 4-10-year-olds, and 34 percent of 11-18-year-olds have a low calcium intake, while the strength of bones, and thus the prevention of osteoporosis, begins in childhood .