Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the human body and a crucial macronutrient, playing a vital role in various bodily functions, including the most well-known one of maintaining strong bones and teeth.
A remarkable 99% of the body’s calcium is stored in the skeleton, which serves as a reservoir, releasing calcium into the bloodstream as needed. This release supports essential processes such as normal blood clotting, cardiovascular function, nerve impulse transmission, and consequently the contraction of smooth, skeletal and heart muscles.
But that’s not all: calcium’s benefits are so extensive that when dietary intake is insufficient, the body prioritises maintaining adequate levels in the blood and cells, even if it means drawing from the calcium stored in the bones. The presence of calcium triggers a series of chemical reactions which, beyond their involvement in cell division and specialisation, support efficient energy metabolism.
What is energy metabolism?
Energy metabolism is the physiological process by which nutrients, such as carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, glucose, fatty acids and amino acids, are converted into the energy the body needs to carry out its vital functions.
Calcium is integral to this process because it influences the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the tool used by the cell to power all energy-dependent processes within the body, thus contributing to maintain an optimal energy reserve.
The essential role calcium plays in energy metabolism underscores the importance of ensuring an adequate intake of this vital mineral. Calcium deficiency can lead to a range of health issues, including muscle cramps, convulsions, drowsiness, poor appetite, irregular heartbeat and increased bone fragility, i.e. osteoporosis.
UltraCal®, Sucrosomial® Calcium supplementation
Calcium deficiency is a common problem, particularly in individuals whose diets lack sufficient calcium-rich foods or in those who experience reduced calcium absorption due to intolerances, certain medical conditions, or the prolonged use of medications like cortisone.
For adults, the recommended daily calcium intake is approximately 800 to 1,000 mg, with an increased requirement of up to 1,200 mg for pregnant women. Dietary calcium intake doesn’t always meet daily requirements, making supplementation necessary in some cases. It is important to remember that calcium absorption is closely tied to vitamin D, which helps the body effectively absorb calcium in the intestines and subsequently incorporate it into bone tissue.
However, calcium supplementation can sometimes cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as abdominal pain, constipation, bloating and flatulence, which is why researchers at Alesco laboratories have focused on the application of Sucrosomial® Technology, a patented delivery system designed to enhance the bioavailability of various minerals while also reducing the common side effects.
These studies have led to the development of two distinct functional ingredients: UltraCal® and UltraCal® Sea. Both are Sucrosomial® Calcium compounds designed to provide the body with an optimal supply of calcium, ensuring high absorption and excellent tolerability.
The key difference between the two lies in their composition: UltraCal® contains tricalcium phosphate, while UltraCal® Sea is made with calcium carbonate sourced from the red algae Lithothamnium Calcareum. Despite this difference, they both contain 31% elemental calcium and are 100% plant-based, making them suitable for individuals who are lactose intolerant as well as those following vegetarian and vegan diets.
UltraCal® and UltraCal® Sea do not interfere with the absorption of other minerals, making them versatile options for inclusion in various formats of dietary supplements, functional foods and beverages, and even food products like milk and dairy items.
UltraCal® products are part of the catalogue of functional ingredients produced by Alesco, whose approach to nutraceuticals has always focused on developing innovative formulations aimed at meeting people’s needs and enhancing overall well-being through safe and effective solutions.