Low Calcium Levels Linked to Cognitive Decline, Study Shows
Maintaining sharp cognitive function as we age is a major concern for many.
New research from the Medical University of Lodz in Poland sheds light on a potential dietary factor influencing cognitive health: calcium intake. The study, published in the journal "Nutrients," reveals a significant connection between low blood calcium levels and poorer cognitive performance in individuals over 60.
While previous research has highlighted the importance of magnesium for cognitive function in older adults, this study dives deeper by directly measuring both calcium and magnesium levels in participant’s blood. This objective approach avoids the potential for inaccuracies found in relying solely on questionnaires about dietary intake.
The researchers examined 1,220 participants over the age of 60, including 876 women and 344 men. Participants provided blood samples while hospitalized, and underwent cognitive function assessments.
The findings confirmed that increasing age and a history of heart failure were associated with poorer cognitive performance. Notably, individuals with lower blood magnesium or calcium exhibited lower scores on cognitive tests.
Interestingly, even those with normal magnesium levels but low calcium levels displayed signs of cognitive decline. This reinforces the importance of adequate calcium intake for optimal brain function.
The study also found a correlation between low blood magnesium and calcium levels and depression, suggesting a crucial role for these minerals in maintaining mental well-being.
"These findings underscore the need to monitor the nutritional status of older adults to prevent cognitive decline," emphasized a nutrition expert commenting on the study.
They further suggested that supplementing with calcium and magnesium-rich foods, such as dairy products, could be beneficial in addressing potential deficiencies.
"Aging, cardiovascular disease, and chronic inflammation can all increase the risk of "cognitive deficiency." When memory, thinking, and problem-solving abilities decline, people have difficulty completing work or household chores accurately and efficiently, and may even become disoriented or lose their memory," the original study explains.
This research highlights the importance of a balanced diet rich in calcium and magnesium for supporting cognitive health throughout life.
2024-11-30 16:01:00
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## Low calcium Linked to Sharp Decline in Cognitive Function, Study Shows
**Maintaining brain health as we age is a top priority for millions. A recent study sheds new light on a potential key player in cognitive decline: calcium.** Research published in the journal “Nutrients” from the Medical university of Lodz in poland reveals a strong correlation between low blood calcium levels adn poor cognitive performance in individuals over the age of 60.
To gain deeper insights into these findings and their implications for aging adults, we spoke with **Dr. Emily Carter, a leading dietician,** and **Dr. Mark Lawson, a neurologist specializing in age-related cognitive decline.**
### **The Calcium-Cognition Connection: Exploring the Link**
**World Today News:** Dr. Carter, can you tell us more about the study and its findings?
**Dr. Emily Carter:** This study is especially intriguing as it directly measured calcium and magnesium levels in participants’ blood. This objective approach provides more reliable data compared to surveys about dietary intake, which can be subjective. The results clearly showed that lower blood calcium levels were directly associated with poorer scores on cognitive function tests,even in individuals with normal magnesium levels.
**World Today News:** Dr. Lawson, how does calcium contribute to brain health?
**Dr. Mark Lawson:** Calcium plays a vital role in neuron communication and signaling within the brain. It is crucial for synaptic plasticity, the brain’s ability to adapt and form new connections. When calcium levels are low, these processes can be impaired, potentially contributing to cognitive decline.
### **Practical Implications: Protecting Cognitive Health Through Diet**
**World today news:** Dr. Carter, what are some practical steps people can take to ensure they are getting enough calcium?
**Dr. Emily Carter:** Incorporating calcium-rich foods into your diet is essential. Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are excellent sources. Leafy green vegetables, almonds, and fortified foods are also good options.
**World Today News:** dr. Lawson, are supplements a viable option for addressing calcium deficiency?
**Dr. Mark Lawson:** Supplements can be helpful in certain cases, particularly for individuals with diagnosed deficiencies or conditions that affect calcium absorption. However, it’s always best to speak to a healthcare professional before starting any supplements.
**”The good news is that addressing low calcium levels through dietary changes or supplementation can potentially have a positive impact on cognitive function,”** emphasizes Dr. carter.
### **Looking Ahead: The Future of Calcium Research**
**World Today News:** dr.Lawson, what future research directions are most promising in this field?
**Dr. Mark Lawson:** I beleive we need more longitudinal studies to understand the long-term impact of low calcium levels on cognitive function. Investigating the interaction between calcium, other nutrients, and lifestyle factors will be crucial.
**World Today News: ** Thank you both for sharing your valuable insights.
**
Key Takeaways**
This research highlights the crucial role of calcium in maintaining cognitive health as we age. Ensuring adequate calcium intake through diet or supplements can be a proactive step towards preserving brain function.
**What are your thoughts? Share your comments below and let us know if you’ve noticed any effects of calcium on your cognitive function.**
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