The cause of a heart attack could be because the body lacks calcium

Calcium is one of the essential minerals needed by the human body. This mineral has various important functions, including maintaining healthy bones and teeth. In addition, calcium is also needed in the mechanism of muscle movement. It takes an adequate amount of calcium intake for these functions to work properly. Did you know that low levels of calcium in the body can be a risk factor for heart attacks?

How much calcium is needed in the body?

The range of normal values for blood calcium levels in adults is 8.9 - 10.1 mg / dL. There is no standard reference for what is the best blood calcium level to minimize heart attack. However, many studies have used a minimum figure of 8.95 mg / dL.

The amount of calcium that is less or more can cause various types of disorders in the body. Recently, many studies and health reports have stated that excess levels of calcium in the blood lead to calcification of the arteries, which can lead to heart disease.

However, one study published in October 2017 stated that people with blood calcium levels of less than 8.95 mg / dL had a 2.3 times greater risk of having a heart attack compared to people who had calcium levels of more than 9.55 mg. / dL.

How can calcium deficiency cause a heart attack?

Calcium is needed by the heart because it plays a role in making the heart contract to pump blood. Lack of calcium intake from outside into the heart muscle cells will eventually cause a decrease in the number of heart contractions.

As a result, there is a lack of oxygen intake - both for the body and for the heart itself - which is known as ischemia. This condition is characterized by the onset of symptoms of a heart attack, such as chest pain such as being crushed by heavy loads, cold sweats, and even death.

What are the symptoms of calcium deficiency?

It is not easy to recognize calcium deficiency or hypocalcemia, because they often have no symptoms at all. The best way is to check blood calcium levels in the laboratory. However, some of the following symptoms can indicate someone has hypocalcemia.

Cramps in the muscles
Fatigue
Tingling on the lips and fingertips
Confusion or delirium
Hallucinations
Electrical conduction disturbances in the heart that can be seen through an electrocardiography (EKG) recording
Loss of consciousness

How to prevent heart attacks due to calcium deficiency?

The old adage says that prevention is better than cure. One of the ways to prevent hypocalcemia is by choosing the type and amount of food in a balanced way. In addition, it is also necessary to have regular health checks so that early symptoms of calcium deficiency can be detected.

The following are examples of foods that are rich in calcium.