Calcium supplement
Calcium supplement
Calcium supplement (pronunciation: /ˈkalsɪəm ˈsʌplɪmənt/) is a type of dietary supplement that contains calcium, an essential mineral for the human body.
Etymology
The term "calcium" originates from the Latin word calx, which means "lime". The term "supplement" comes from the Latin supplementum, meaning "something added".
Definition
A calcium supplement is a product taken to provide additional calcium to the body. This is often necessary when an individual's diet does not provide the recommended daily amount of calcium.
Usage
Calcium supplements are commonly used to prevent or treat calcium deficiency, also known as hypocalcemia. They are also used in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weak and brittle bones.
Types
There are several types of calcium supplements, including calcium carbonate, calcium citrate, calcium lactate, and calcium gluconate. Each type contains a different amount of elemental calcium, which is the actual amount of calcium in the supplement.
Side Effects
Like all supplements, calcium supplements can have side effects. These may include constipation, gas, and bloating. In rare cases, taking too much calcium can lead to hypercalcemia, a condition characterized by high levels of calcium in the blood.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Calcium supplement
- Wikipedia's article - Calcium supplement
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