If we haven't stored lots of calcium in our younger years, we have a greater risk of osteoporosis in our older years. Calcium that has been stored in the younger years helps maintain healthy bones as we age, and calcium that we continue to eat after 35 helps to minimize bone loss in later years. Throughout life, our bones are in a constant state of change, with calcium being deposited and withdrawn regularly. If we don't consume enough calcium, our body may need to take it from our bones for such functions as muscle contraction, heart contraction, or nerve function. It should be obvious that eating calcium-rich foods is an important part of health throughout our lives.
Calcium works with phosphorus, vitamin D and magnesium in the body.
To work effectively, these nutrients all have to be balanced. Everyone knows that low-fat milk and other dairy products are some of the best calcium sources available. It's not unlike flour. You wouldn't eat it straight from the package, but its potential to be transformed into something delicious is virtually boundless. It may significantly increase bone density.