Calcium absorption is increased by
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Factors Increasing Calcium Absorption
Calcium absorption is a critical process for maintaining bone health and overall physiological function. Various factors can enhance calcium absorption, including dietary components and supplements. This article synthesizes research findings on how different substances and conditions influence calcium absorption.
Vitamin D and Calcium Absorption
Role of Vitamin D in Enhancing Calcium Absorption
Vitamin D plays a significant role in calcium absorption. Studies have shown that increasing doses of vitamin D3 can lead to a linear increase in calcium absorption without a threshold effect. In a study involving postmenopausal women, a dose of 4000 IU of vitamin D3 resulted in a 6.7% absolute increase in calcium absorption . Another study confirmed that higher serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) are associated with increased calcium absorption, although the effect size is relatively small .
Dietary Fibers and Calcium Absorption
Soluble Corn Fiber (SCF)
Soluble corn fiber (SCF) has been shown to significantly enhance calcium absorption. In a randomized trial involving adolescent females, SCF intake at doses of 10 and 20 grams per day increased calcium absorption by 13.3% and 12.9%, respectively. This increase was associated with shifts in the gut microbiota, particularly an increase in the genus Parabacteroides .
Transgalactooligosaccharides (TOS)
Transgalactooligosaccharides (TOS) also promote calcium absorption. A study on postmenopausal women found that consuming a yogurt drink containing TOS increased true calcium absorption by 16% compared to a control group .
Inulin-Type Fructans
Inulin-type fructans, including short- and long-chain varieties, have been shown to enhance calcium absorption and bone mineralization. In a study with pubertal adolescents, daily supplementation with inulin-type fructans increased calcium absorption by 8.5% after 8 weeks and 5.9% after one year. This effect was also linked to improved bone mineral content and density . Another study in young adults indicated that the primary mechanism for this increased absorption is enhanced colonic absorption .
Fructooligosaccharides (FOS)
Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) have been demonstrated to stimulate true calcium absorption in both human and animal studies. In rats, FOS feeding increased both true and apparent calcium absorption, suggesting potential benefits for bone calcification . Similarly, a mixture of inulin and FOS improved calcium absorption and retention in ovariectomized rats, indicating positive effects on bone metabolism .
High-Protein Diets and Calcium Absorption
Impact of High-Protein Diets
A diet high in meat protein and potential renal acid load (PRAL) can also increase calcium absorption. In a study with postmenopausal women, a high-protein, high-PRAL diet increased fractional calcium absorption and urinary calcium excretion without affecting markers of bone resorption or formation. This suggests that the increased calcium absorption partially compensates for the higher urinary calcium loss .
Conclusion
Calcium absorption can be significantly enhanced by various factors, including vitamin D supplementation, dietary fibers like soluble corn fiber, transgalactooligosaccharides, inulin-type fructans, and fructooligosaccharides, as well as high-protein diets. These findings highlight the importance of considering dietary and supplemental strategies to improve calcium absorption and support bone health.
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