Calcium and Osteoporosis

How does a lack of calcium affect the bones?

What you will do today…

-List the functions of calcium in the bloodstream and body tissues.-Create a visual example of the impact of calcium loss on bone tissue.

Calcium Fast Facts

• Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body and is used so often that it must be constantly replenished through the diet

• More than 99% of the calcium in your body is stored in the bones

The Importance of Calcium

• Calcium in the bones (along with phosphorus) helps to maintain the strength and structure of the bones

• Calcium is also stored in the bones for removal when the body needs it; specialized cells in the bone are responsible for adding or removing calcium, depending on the amount of calcium in the bloodstream

The Importance of Calcium

Calcium in the bloodstream function to …• Allows cells to respond to hormones• Stabilize blood pressure• Assist insulin in allowing glucose to enter cells• Assist in blood clotting• Assist in the release of neurotransmitters • Facilitate muscle contractions• Assist sperm in the fertilization of the egg

The Scenario

• You are a family physician, and you have just informed a 43-year-old female patient that her bone mineral density test shows early signs of osteoporosis.

• You will create a visual example of the impact of calcium loss on bone tissue by setting up an experiment