Final answer:
Insufficient calcium intake can lead to osteoporosis, a disease characterized by brittle and fragile bones. Adequate calcium and vitamin D are essential for maintaining bone density and preventing bone-related health issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lack of calcium in the diet can lead to several health issues, including a disease known as osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is characterized by weak and brittle bones that are more susceptible to fractures. It occurs due to multiple factors such as decalficication of bones stemming from insufficient dietary calcium, hypoparathyroidism (reduced function of the parathyroid glands), and low vitamin D levels in the body, which affects the absorption of calcium from the intestines. Calcium is essential not only for bone formation but also maintaining bone density, particularly into old age.
In addition to osteoporosis, inadequate calcium levels can affect muscle function, nerve transmission, and blood clotting. Hyperparathyroidism, which results from overactive parathyroid glands, can also lead to decreased bone density and fractures. Osteoporosis frequently affects postmenopausal women due to drops in estrogen levels which impact calcium absorption and bone density. Ensuring adequate intake of calcium, alongside vitamin D for absorption, is critical for preventing osteoporosis and maintaining overall skeletal health.