Calcium plays a major role in our bodies, strengthening bones and teeth, but this bone-building mineral is also significant in other areas of our health, including weight management and warding off PMS. Here are five health benefits of calcium that will inspire you to increase your calcium intake.

Calcium to prevent osteoporosis
Since, Calcium is crucial for strong bones and teeth, and it is especially important for children and young adults to bone up on the mineral. Calcium absorption and bone development is at its peak up to age 20, and then decreases at around age 30 when a draining process begins. Moreover, an adequate intake of calcium, plus an appropriate intake of vitamin D, can significantly increase bone mass in both growing children and young adults, and it can decrease bone loss during aging.

Calcium will keep you slim and trim
Over the past few years, calcium has been getting attention due to its slimming effects on the metabolism. Research also suggests that calcium may prevent weight gain because it promotes more fat to be burned and less fat to be stored.

Calcium may combat cancer
A healthy antioxidant-rich diet has been flaunted as a preventative of cancer, but research suggests that adequate calcium intake may also ward off colorectal, ovarian and breast cancers. More is not necessarily better; however, as some studies conclude that mega doses of calcium (through supplementation) may increase the risk of prostate cancer. The National Cancer Institute does not recommend calcium supplementation as a means to prevent cancer, but it promotes adequate calcium intake through dietary sources.

Emerging research supports an adequate calcium intake as a means to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and hypertension. Though 99 percent of the calcium in the body is in the bones and teeth, the remaining one percent plays a crucial role in other bodily functions, such as nerve transmission and muscular function. As you know very well that the heart is a muscle and both the heart and blood vessels are innervated by the nervous system. Therefore its deficiency in calcium can cause heart problems, as well as high blood pressure. Caution: Too much calcium, upwards of 2,000 milligrams or more, has been linked with an increased risk of heart disease, so rely on calcium-rich food sources for heart health.

Furthermore, Calcium is important for optimal bone health throughout your life. Although diet is the best way to get calcium, calcium supplements may be an option if your diet falls short.
Before you consider calcium supplements, be sure you understand how much calcium you need, the pros and cons of calcium supplements, and which type of supplement to choose.
Your body needs calcium to build and maintain strong bones. Your heart, muscles and nerves also need calcium to function properly. Some studies suggest that calcium, along with vitamin D, may have benefits beyond bone health, perhaps protecting against cancer, diabetes and high blood pressure. But evidence about such health benefits is not definitive.