Calcium Absorption

1
Calcium Absorption

• Vitamin D is necessary to absorb calcium.
• Phosphorus combines with calcium to create
  calcium phosphorus.
• A diet rich in amino acids will make calcium more
  absorbable.

2

• Lactose makes calcium more soluble and easier to
  absorb.
• The parathyroid gland (part of the endocrine
  system) produces parathormone, which controls the
  level of calcium in the blood.
• Oestrogen aids absorption, especially in women.

3
Which inhibits (prevents) absorption?

• Phytic acid prevents calcium absorption as it
  attaches to calcium, making it unavailable to the
  small intestine.
• Oxalic acid (e.g. in strawberries and rhubarb)
  and dietary fibber have a similar effect.
• Saturated fatty acids make calcium unavailable by
  producing insoluble soap.

4

• Lack of oestrogen during menopause.
• Lack of vitamin D and phosphorous.