15 May The Calcium, Bone, & Blood Connection
There is a synergistic relationship between the body’s bone and the blood pH level. Research finds that maintaining a proper blood pH level is critical for maintaining overall bone health.
More than calcium alone
Most people think solely of the macro mineral calcium when talking about bone health. However, calcium is only one component of healthy bone. You see, calcium is all about the co-factors. In isolation, it does not work effectively.
Think of calcium like a football quarterback. The co-factors are his team members. The calcium quarterback wouldn’t get very far down the field without the rest of his team. Like team players on a football squad, the co-factors are essential for calcium to be successful and useful.
There are seven key co-factors in the absorption of calcium. These are systemic pH, hormonal function, hydration, supporting minerals, vitamins, fatty acids, and proper digestion. To be effective, all of these need to be working in harmony.
When blood pH acidifies
Our body tightly monitors its blood pH. Diets that consist primarily of processed foods (acid-forming) can severely compromise pH balance in the body. When the body’s blood pH acidifies, calcium is released from bone and deposited into the blood to bring it back into homeostasis. Likewise, when the blood pH level becomes too alkaline, calcium is deposited into the bone from the blood. The parathyroid hormone (PTH) is the essential referee in the exchange of calcium between the bone and the blood.
It may surprise you that processed dairy products are actually an acid-forming food which can severely compromise pH balance in the body. Relying on processed dairy products for calcium can actually make the body leech more calcium out of the bone than it is receiving. If you enjoy milk and other dairy products, a healthier alternative would be to seek out a raw dairy food source for optimal benefit.
A solid defense
Proper nutrient intake is key in order to maintain a balanced blood pH level. This will allow the blood to effectively assimilate calcium and co-factors such as magnesium, potassium, zinc, vitamin A, C, and D, which work together to maintain and fortify bones. Apart from one another, these crucial components will not perform as intended. Together they are a winning team of bone-building nutrients that provide a solid defense against bone disease.
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