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Calcium is the most popular mineral supplement on the market, yet certain forms of calcium tablets are often poorly absorbed by the digestive systems of older people because of insufficient stomach acid.6 The Life Extension Foundation Buyers Club supplies calcium and almost all other mineral supplements only in the form of finely divided mineral powders within capsules that easily disintegrate in the stomach for optimal absorption. Studies have also shown that certain mineral compounds are absorbed better than others.7-10
Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body where it is primarily found in bones and teeth. In bone formation, calcium forms crystals that provide strength to maturing bone. Peak bone mass is usually achieved when people are in their 20’s.
Calcium is needed for more than just healthy bones. It is also important for muscle contraction, blood vessel contraction and expansion, the secretion of hormones and enzymes, and sending messages through the nervous system. A meta-analysis of 56 clinical trials demonstrated a significant impact on heart health resulting from increasing calcium intake by 1000 to 2000 mg/day.11 In addition, recent evidence suggests that increased intake of calcium may help in weight control as well.12-15
Magnesium is one of the body’s most important minerals. It is required as a co-factor in hundreds of enzymatic processes within cells.16 It helps maintain normal muscle and nerve function, keeps heart rhythm steady, supports a healthy immune system, and keeps bones strong.* Magnesium also helps to maintain blood sugar and blood pressure levels already within normal range, and is known to be involved in energy metabolism and protein synthesis.17,18*
Magnesium is a major factor in relaxing the smooth muscles within the blood vessels, thereby reducing peripheral vascular resistance and promoting a healthy cardiovascular system.19-21* Magnesium also affects circulating levels of norepinephrine and the synthesis of serotonin and nitric oxide.16,22-24
In bone mineral health, magnesium (or lack of) influences the bone mineral matrix and its ability to metabolize minerals needed for repair and rebuilding.25, 26 The scientific literature documents the need for a wide range of minerals that are vital to maintaining strong, healthy bones.*
Calcium and other minerals are best not taken with fiber, because fiber can interfere with their absorption.1-5 There is evidence that calcium from supplements and dairy foods may inhibit iron absorption, although it has been very difficult to distinguish between the effects of calcium on iron absorption versus other inhibitory factors such as phytate.27
Therefore, if you are iron deficient, it may be best to avoid taking calcium with meals.28 Calcium supplements are best administered at dinner and/or bedtime. They should always be taken with a full glass of water, juice, or other liquid to enhance solubility.29 If calcium-containing formulas are taken only once daily they may be best taken in the evening.30
A problem overlooked by most doctors is that loss of bone density is associated with deficiencies of not just calcium, but a host of other nutrients including magnesium and vitamin D3.31-37 In order for calcium to prevent bone loss, adequate amounts of vitamin D3, zinc, manganese and other nutrients should be available so that calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus can be incorporated into the bone matrix.38-46 Another issue that many people are not aware of is that many forms of calcium do not absorb particularly well.47,48
In order to overcome the impediments that preclude aging women and men from achieving optimal calcium status, a mineral formula has been designed that provides 1200 elemental milligrams from three different forms of calcium per daily dose, along with critically important nutrients needed to promote healthy bones. Bone Restore provides calcium along with nutrients like boron and silicon to further boost the body’s ability to maintain healthy bone density.49-53*
Boron has been identified as one of the most important nutrients to help maintain bone health. As such, Life Extension has incorporated a powerful form of boron, called FruiteX B® OsteoBoron™, which is more bioavailable than boron citrate, the nutrient used in most commercial bone building supplements.
FruiteX B® OsteoBoron™ is made from a naturally occurring boron complex found in fruits and vegetables. Its unique boron-carbohydrate structure that easily binds to fructose may be one of the reasons for its health benefits. Boron in general is a crucial mineral in bone/joint health. Numerous studies have shown boron to contribute to the structural integrity of bone.54-56
Mineral Formula for Women reflects the need of women for more calcium than men. This product should be taken as an addition to Life Extension Mix™. Vitamin D is included to aid in calcium absorption and utilization. |