Dr. Stefano Sinicropi, M.D.

We talk a lot about healthy dietary choices and why they are important on this blog, but we don’t always dive into hyper specific nutrient recommendations. That changes today as we talk about calcium, an essential mineral that helps keep our spines healthy in a number of different ways. Below, we explain why calcium can be so beneficial for your spine, and how to improve your calcium intake if you’re struggling to get the recommended daily amount.

Calcium And Your Spine Health

In order to have a strong spine, you need to have healthy bones, and calcium is the building block of ideal bone development. In fact, about 99% of the calcium in our body is stored in our bones and our teeth, and calcium is the primary component of the mineralized part of our bones. Speaking specifically to the spine, ample calcium intake can:

• Develop Strong Bones – Old bone is constantly dying off and being replaced by new, healthy bone. Calcium makes it easier for your body to replenish this lost bone with strong cellular material. There are 33 vertebrae that make up your spine, and they all need a regular dose of calcium.
• Avoid Bone Softening Or Weakening – Similarly, ideal calcium intake helps you avoid issues like osteoporosis and osteopenia. Don’t let your bones become soft and brittle because you deprived them of the right nutrients.
• Stave Off Disc Degeneration – Spinal discs rest between vertebrae and provide mobility to the spinal complex. Over the years, these discs slowly break down as a result of stress and natural aging, but this process can be expedited if you’re lacking in the calcium department. Prevent the progression of spinal disc degeneration by being cognizant of your calcium intake.
• Spinal Column Stability – When we think of calcium, we oftentimes focus on how it aids in bone growth and development, but the mineral also helps to ensure proper muscle function. There are numerous muscles and soft tissues that help stabilize your spinal column, and calcium ensures these structures can continue to support your spine.

Dairy products are typically packed with calcium, so foods like milk, yogurt and cheese are wise options, but green vegetables can also be a bountiful source of calcium. Spinach, kale, broccoli and collared greens are great sources of calcium.

And while calcium from food sources are preferred, you can also talk with your physician about boosting your calcium levels through supplementation. Different supplements can provide a range of nutrients to make up for any deficiencies that you’re struggling to overcome with diet alone. You can find a variety of basic supplements at your grocery store or local drugstore, or you can ask your doctor for specific supplementation recommendations. Just remember that supplementation should be used to assist alongside a healthy diet, not used to replace a healthy diet.

Contact a Minnesota Spine Surgeon

Calcium is a pillar of a healthy spine, and boosting your calcium intake is one of the simplest things you can do to protect the health of your vertebrae and spinal discs. For more information about which nutrients can promote ideal spine health, or for help overcoming a specific spinal issue, connect with Dr. Sinicropi and the team at Midwest Spine & Brain Institute today at (651) 430-3800.

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