If a Nobel Prize could be given for nutrients, it would have to go to calcium, and not just for its ability to maintain healthy teeth and bones. It also protects against high blood pressure, facilitates nerve function, aids the immune system, sparks the beating of the heart and other muscular contractions.
This multitasking mineral can be an invaluable ally in the battle of the bulge as well. In addition to experiencing greater bone density, women who were on a diet and exercise program and taking 800 to 1,000 mg of supplemental calcium daily lost approximately 25 percent more weight in 10 weeks than women who were given a calcium placebo. Other research into calcium’s effects on weight loss has shown that the mineral encourages the body to choose fat over muscle to account for the weight loss and fat in the area of the abdomen, especially. Calcium prevents the release of fat-storing hormones that are typically released when calorie intake is reduced enough to promote weight loss. By contrast, when calcium levels are too low, the body senses famine during periods of low calorie consumption and releases these fat-storing hormones, which cause calorie burning to slow down. Simply cutting calories to lose weight can be counterproductive, because if enough calcium is not available, the body will do all it can to preserve whatever fat it has in preparation for what it perceives to be the lean times ahead. Fat storage instead of fat burning becomes the body’s priority; even if it means burning muscle tissue to do it and unwanted pounds can result. Dairy products are key in a healthy diet. Certain bioactive compounds in food sources of calcium seem to work synergistically with calcium to enhance its fat-burning effects. It’s best to opt for fat-free or low-fat dairy products and green leafy vegetables. Many people won’t get the recommended 1,000 mg. of calcium daily (1,200 mg. a day if over age 50) from food alone, and should consider investing in a good calcium supplement.
For more information, please call the Curves location nearest you; Newhall 661-284-3012; Canyon Country 661-250-8842; Stevenson Ranch/Westridge 661-799-7606 or Saugus 661-297-9640.
