Role of Calcium in Osteoarthritis in Females

About 16 out of 27 million osteoarthritis sufferers are females, according to the Arthritis Foundation. Women can adopt habits to promote good bone health and decrease symptoms. One good habit is to keep calcium levels up.

• Females are susceptible to osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis Explained

• Osteoarthritis affects joints.

  Osteoarthritis causes accelerated degeneration of joint cartilage. Symptoms are joint pain, swelling, stiffness, decreased function and achiness particularly after exercise. If you are overweight, the symptoms can be worse and the onset of the condition can be sooner.

Females with Osteoarthritis

• The Arthritis Foundation says that women are more likely to be diagnosed with all arthritis types. And osteoarthritis is the most common one. Women over the age of 40 are most likely to experience symptoms.

The Role of Calcium

• Greenl leafy vegetables have calcium.

  According to Arthritis Today's website, poor calcium intake in part can cause weight gain, which makes you more susceptible to osteoarthritis. You need calcium for bone growth and must take it with vitamin D for best absorption. The Guide to Over-the-Counter Drugs, Vitamins, and Natural Medicines suggests soy, almonds, calcium carbonate (antacids), dairy products and green, leafy vegetables.

Calcium Recommendations

• For females (ages 19 to 51) 1,000 milligrams (mg) of calcium per day is recommended by Arthritis Today. For ladies over 51, the daily dosage increases to 1200 mg. Yet, too much calcium can cause constipation, calcium deposits in vital organs and even bone spurs. according to the Guide to Over-the-Counter Drugs, Vitamins, and Natural Medicines.

Treatment

• For osteoarthritis, you can take medication to reduce inflammation, do strength-building exercises and maintain a healthy diet. Avoid excess caffeine, which can deplete calcium, and abstain from smoking.