Final answer:
The 7 cofactors required for proper absorption and use of calcium in the body are vitamin D, acidic pH, organic acids, lactose, basic amino acids, dietary factors, protein intake, and other factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
The 7 cofactors required for proper absorption and use of calcium in the body are:
- Vitamin D: It enhances absorption of Ca from the intestine and maintains normal Ca concentration.
- Acidic pH: It favours calcium absorption because calcium salts are more soluble in acid solution.
- Organic acids, lactose, and basic amino acids: These components in the diet also favor calcium absorption.
- Vitamin D deficiency, excess phytates, low Ca/P ratio in diet, increased pH of upper intestine, and malabsorption syndromes: These factors can adversely affect calcium absorption.
- Dietary factors: Insoluble calcium salts, high magnesium concentration, and excess dietary fiber can inhibit calcium absorption.
- Protein intake: Higher levels of proteins in the diet increase the absorption of calcium.
- Other factors: Excess fiber in the diet and high calcium intake can decrease the percentage of calcium absorption.