Science Shows Powerful Calcium Benefits: Heart, Sleep, More

calcium benefitsCalcium benefits are numerous and far-reaching.  It is one of the most essential minerals for maintaining overall health, yet many people don’t get enough of it.

While most know that calcium is vital for strong bones, research has revealed that calcium benefits go far beyond that.

From supporting heart function to aiding in weight management, calcium is a true powerhouse nutrient. Let’s explore the many ways calcium enhances health, backed by science.

1. Strengthens Bones and Teeth

It’s no secret that calcium is vital for bone health. According to a study published in The Journal of Bone and Mineral Research, adequate calcium intake helps maintain bone density and reduces the risk of osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and increases fracture risk. Calcium also plays a key role in strengthening teeth, preventing decay and gum disease.

2. Supports Heart Health

Calcium helps regulate heart function by ensuring proper muscle contractions, including those of the heart. Research in The American Journal of Medicine found that people with sufficient calcium intake had a lower risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. It also helps blood vessels relax and contract properly, promoting healthy circulation.

3. Aids in Weight Management

Surprisingly, calcium can play a role in weight control. A study in Obesity Research found that individuals who consumed more calcium, especially from dairy sources, had lower body fat levels and found it easier to manage their weight. Calcium may help regulate fat storage and breakdown, making it an important part of a balanced diet.

4. Reduces the Risk of Colon Cancer

Research published in The Journal of the National Cancer Institute suggests that calcium may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. It’s believed that calcium binds to harmful compounds in the intestines, preventing them from damaging colon cells and reducing cancer risk.

5. Supports Muscle Function and Nerve Health

Calcium is essential for muscle contraction and nerve communication. Without it, muscles may cramp, and nerve signals may become sluggish. According to The Journal of Physiology, calcium enables the transmission of signals between the brain and body, ensuring smooth muscle movements and reducing the risk of spasms.

6. Promotes Better Sleep and Reduces Insomnia

Calcium plays an important role in sleep regulation. A study in The European Neurology Journal found that calcium helps the brain use the amino acid tryptophan (a component of protein) to produce melatonin, the sleep-inducing hormone. Low calcium levels have been linked to sleep disturbances and insomnia. Consuming calcium-rich foods before bed may enhance sleep quality and duration.

Best Food Sources of Calcium

To get enough calcium, it’s best to consume a variety of calcium-rich foods. Here are the top sources:

Dairy Sources:

  • Milk
  • Yogurt
  • Cheese

Non-Dairy Sources:

  • Leafy greens (kale, bok choy, collard greens)
  • Almonds
  • Sardines (with bones)
  • Chia seeds
  • Sesame seeds
  • Figs

Calcium Benefits for Good Sleep

This natural health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II.

***** Wendy R. of Honolulu, Hawaii says: “My friends know that I’ve had chronic insomnia for a long time. Surprisingly, I received the Sleep Minerals II and began taking it and found this thing really works. In the past if I ever got a good night’s sleep I’d say ‘I slept like a baby’, but that’s the wrong comparison. Those little guys get up every two hours. I am actually beginning to sleep like an adult — a much-rested adult.”

Summary

Getting enough calcium is essential for a strong, healthy body. Whether through dairy or plant-based sources, adding more calcium-rich foods and supplements to your diet can improve bone health, heart function, weight management, and even reduce disease risks. It can also enhance sleep quality and quantity and help remedy insomnia. So, start making calcium a priority today – your body will thank you!

Find out more info on the effective natural sleep aid Sleep Minerals II.

Nutrition Breakthroughs: Tomato Juice Reduces Waist Size, Body Fat

tomatoes and tomato juice on white backgroundWho would’ve known that the red coloring matter in tomatoes is one of the most powerful natural medicines in existence?

The red color comes from a healthy plant chemical called lycopene. Lycopene is what makes the tomato a super-food — one that goes far beyond just providing something tasty to eat. Lycopene has been shown in studies from the Journal of Nutrition to help protect against heart disease, lower cholesterol, and reduce inflammation for a stronger immune system.

Interestingly, a new study has shown that the same traits of tomato juice that can cause these internal health improvements can also enhance one’s appearance by inducing a lower body weight and a thinner waistline.

There are unlimited health benefits from eating all kinds of vegetables and fruits including preventing diabetes, lowering the risk of all types of cancers, strengthening the heart, balancing hormones, smoothing the skin and increasing energy. They are nature’s finest natural remedies.

Lycopene gives the red color to watermelons, pink grapefruits and tomatoes. Spinach, corn and avocado contain the yellow and green shades supplied by lutein which supports good eye health. Grapes and blueberries contain the blue and purple pigments known to benefit everything from memory to arthritis.

The new study on tomato juice comes from the China Medical University in Taiwan. Researchers found that a daily glass of tomato juice taken by women for two months resulted in significantly decreased body fat and body weight, as well as a smaller waist circumference and lower cholesterol. The subjects continued with their normal diet and exercise and made no changes other than drinking one nine ounce glass of tomato juice each day.

The women were divided into two groups: Those that had a reduction in body fat from the tomato juice and those that didn’t. One point that was highlighted by the study is that regardless of whether there was a loss of body fat, the tomato juice still induced a reduction in waist circumference, lowered cholesterol levels, reduced inflammation, and increased lycopene levels in each person.  Adding a simple glass of tomato juice daily can do wonders for one’s health.

Calcium is another natural substance that surprisingly has been studied for its beneficial effects on weight loss.  This famous mineral is best known providing a calmer, deeper sleep and for strengthening bones and muscles.

According to a study in the Journal of Nutrition called Calcium Intake and Reduction in Weight or Fat Mass, the researchers say: “The impact of calcium intake on weight loss or prevention of weight gain has been demonstrated in a wide age range of Caucasian and African-Americans of both genders…. The implications of these results are that calcium may play a substantial contributing role in reducing the incidence of obesity.”

One calcium-based supplement shown to be effective for insomnia is Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs.  This formula contains highly absorbable forms of calcium and magnesium, the best minerals for sleeplessness and insomnia, menopause insomnia, teenage insomnia, heart health, restless legs syndrome and bone strength.

Wendy R. of Honolulu, Hawaii says: “My friends know that I’ve had chronic insomnia for a long time. Surprisingly, I received the Sleep Minerals II and began taking it and found out this thing really works. In the past if I ever got a good nights sleep I’d say ‘I slept like a baby’, but that’s the wrong comparison. Those little guys get up every two hours. I am actually beginning to sleep like an adult — a much-rested adult.”

This health news is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs. Since 2001 Nutrition Breakthroughs has provided natural health articles and effective natural remedies.  Their mission is to provide nutritional supplements that get results and help people to avoid drugs and their side effects.

For more information on Sleep Minerals II visit this page.