How to drink calcium correctly - dosage and expert recommendations

Calcium Hydroxyapatite (CaHA) is the only biodegradable filler that can quickly restore lost volume while stimulating the skin's natural collagen production1. Exposure of the skin to ultrasonic waves leads to selective heating of tissue at a given depth and the formation of foci of thermal coagulation, during the regeneration of which there is also an increase in the synthesis of new collagen fibers. Both methods (calcium hydroxyapatite filler injections and ultrasonic waves) have a favorable safety profile that is well studied and approved by the FDA; effectiveness has been shown in studies2-8. Therefore, the possibility of combining them to enhance the skin tightening effect is of interest. So far, only a few similar studies have been conducted: to eliminate cellulite, treat atrophic post-acne scars, reduce skin elasticity and wrinkles on the neck and décolleté, as well as reduce the elasticity of the skin on the inner thighs9-13.

In this study, we assessed the clinical effectiveness and tolerability of methods for correcting age-related changes in the skin of the face, neck and décolleté , as well as patient satisfaction. In addition, pathohistomorphological characteristics were studied to establish the compatibility of this combination.

What does calcium do for the body?

Micro- and macroelements are necessary for the body for the full functioning of organs and systems. Beneficial features:

1. Affects blood clotting, helping to form a blood clot to block tissue rupture.
2. Takes part in the process of muscle contractility and excitability of nerve fibers.
3. Blocks the absorption of saturated fats in the digestive tract, thereby preventing the deposition of harmful cholesterol.
4. Contained in cellular and tissue fluids.
5. It is part of the membrane and nucleus of cells and affects the permeability of the membrane.
6. Failure of calcium concentration in the blood leads to disruption of the endocrine, pancreas and gonads, adrenal glands and pituitary gland. The element is involved in the activity of these organs.

The body should be enriched with calcium and other beneficial substances daily. This will avoid the development of pathologies and complications.

Indications for use

Cosmetologists sometimes call preparations containing calcium hydroxyapatite nasolabial fillers. This is due to the fact that they give the most positive results in this zone. However, with the help of such fillers, other parts of the human body are also corrected:

• Temple area. Aging is an inevitable process for a person, which is accompanied by the loss of the soft tissues of the face of their previous volume. This leads to the appearance of so-called shadows or depressions in the temple area. Lifting filler, which is based on calcium hydroxyapatite, replenishes and corrects the volume lost in these problem areas, which confirms the high effectiveness of the drug;
• cheekbones. They play one of the main roles in the aesthetic formation of the face and are responsible for the perception of it by the people around them. A person with clearly defined cheekbones looks young and fresh, and facial features acquire special sophistication. With the help of preparations with calcium hydroxyapatite, it is possible to carry out a thorough correction of this area of ​​the face, restore the volume and relief of the cheekbones;
• nose area. Many people are unhappy with their nose, and this does not depend on age at all. Cosmetologists recommend that such patients undergo rhinoplasty without surgery. In this case, the filler acts as a kind of implant. With its help, you can make your nose straighter, hide a hump, adjust the tip, etc. Correction of the nose with fillers makes sense for the correction of minor defects. It is impossible to radically change the shape of this organ or reduce its size using rhinoplasty;
• nasolabial folds. This area is considered one of the most problematic and noticeable. With age, the folds that stretch from the edges of the nose to the corners of the lips become deep and distinct, which gives the face a gloomy, sad appearance. Tightening them with creams or using facial skin tightening is almost impossible. In this case, fillers with hydroxyapatite filler show the maximum effect. By filling voids in tissues, the drug significantly improves skin texture, smoothes wrinkles in the selected area, and reduces wrinkles to a minimum;
• "puppet wrinkles" This is the term cosmetologists call age-related drooping of the corners of the lips. Lack of volume in this area leads to the appearance or deepening of previously formed wrinkles. Filler injections in this case give the most positive results, which remain effective for up to 2 years. The production of your own collagen in this area contributes to a significant inhibition of the aging process;
• lower jaw and chin. Age-related changes lead to the fact that over time, the skin of the face loses volume, becomes flabby, sag on the lower jaw, forming jowls. Vector lifting using filler injections can perfectly align the contour of the lower jaw and return the chin to its previous, clear contour. This type of contouring also makes it possible to get rid of a double chin;
• Hands. As old age approaches, the tendons and blood vessels on the backs of the hands become more visible, and the skin on the hands looks flabby and dry. The ideal solution in this case is the use of filler injections with calcium hydroxyapatite. This is the only drug that is approved for use in this area.

When should you start taking calcium?

The supplement is prescribed for the prevention of various diseases, an increase in the need for the element, and a lack of absorption. Lack of the substance causes kidney disease, hypertension, and intestinal malabsorption. The main causes of hypocalcemia in the body:

• unbalanced diet;
• following strict diets;
• chronic pancreatitis;
• long bed rest;
• lack of vitamin D;
• kidney diseases;
• dysfunction of the thyroid and parathyroid glands;
• excess iron, zinc, phosphorus, sodium, lead, magnesium;
• dysbacteriosis;
• candidiasis;
• food allergies;
• long-term use of diuretics and laxatives.

Those at risk include the elderly, children, teenagers, and pregnant or breastfeeding women. At this age and condition, macronutrient consumption increases sharply.

The role of calcium in the life of a pregnant woman

The body of the expectant mother while carrying a child needs minerals and vitamins. Pregnant women are often diagnosed with a lack of this microelement, which is responsible for the condition of teeth, bones, hair, muscles, and the formation of the cardiac and nervous systems. The element is involved in the development of all tissues and organs of the baby.

Advantages

Calcium hydroxyapatite fillers have many wonderful properties. Among them are the following:

• naturalness. The homogeneity and homogeneity of the drug, combined with the high professional qualities of the doctor, allows the patient to look as natural as possible immediately after the procedure;
• Expected Result. The structure of the gel prevents the migration of the drug through the tissues, concentrating in the place chosen by the specialist;
• no swelling;
• long lasting effect. The filler is removed from the body rather slowly, while the microspheres are replaced by their own tissues formed during this time;
• safety. The drug is biocompatible with humans, non-toxic, does not cause allergic reactions;
• easy and painless insertion procedure;
• lack of rehabilitation period;
• the skin is rejuvenated and healed naturally.

How to understand that there is not enough calcium in the body

The first symptoms of macronutrient deficiency are increased fatigue and general weakness. Signs of hypocalcemia:

• deterioration of hair, teeth, skin and nails;
• numbness of limbs, convulsions;
• sleep disorder;
• disruption of the menstrual cycle;
• blood clotting disorder;
• weakening of the immune system.

With prolonged deficiency of the substance, osteoporosis, heart failure, and changes in mineral metabolism develop. Emerging pathologies require immediate treatment.

Data from a comparative morphological assessment of skin changes from the anterior abdominal wall

1. Changes in the patients' skin after treatment were observed already at study visit M08 and reached a maximum at study visit M12 and included increased neoangiogenesis in both the superficial and deeper layers of the dermis. Van Gieson staining and Wager staining of elastin fibers showed that the accumulation of coarse collagen fibers and qualitatively changed elastin fibers continued in the extracellular matrix of the skin.
2. After administration of CaHA diluted in saline, significant increases in collagen type I, collagen type III, and an endothelial marker of newly formed blood vessels were observed by immunohistochemical evaluation. These changes were enhanced after MFU-V treatment.

What medications are there?

There are several forms of calcium: gluconate, carbonate, citrate and chelate. Each type has certain properties and levels of digestibility.

1. Gluconate. This type of element has the largest list of contraindications and side effects. It is absorbed by the body only 3%. With long-term treatment, stones form in the gall bladder and kidneys. Its only advantage is its low price.
2. Carbonate. The most common form of calcium is absorbed by 17-22% at high and 0% at low acidity. Long-term use leads to the formation of calcium kidney stones. Taking a large amount of the element at a time can cause nausea, abdominal pain, and digestive tract disorders.
3. Citrate. The absorption rate of the drug is 44%. Calcium can be taken at any time, even on an empty stomach. This form of the element is safe for humans and does not cause the formation of stones. Calcium citrate helps change the pH of urine, eliminating the development of diseases of the urinary ducts and genital infections.
4. Chelated. On the world market this is the best form of calcium, which is also called “ionic”. The absorption of the drug is equal to 90-98%. The product has no side effects and does not irritate the digestive tract. The chelate is completely soluble in water, and the rapid release of calcium ions protects the blood from oversaturation with the element.

There is also calcium chloride in ampoules, which is used to more quickly saturate the body with the substance. Droppers are prescribed to people with increased secretion of the element and a deficiency in the functioning of the parathyroid glands.

Mechanism of action of calcium hydroxyapatite

Preparations based on calcium hydroxyapatite are recognized as one of the safest and most effective means for rejuvenation. They are actively used in contour plastic surgery.

Calcium hydroxyapatite is a component of inorganic origin that is part of human bone tissue. In this regard, this substance is perfectly absorbed by the human body, without causing rejection or other unpleasant consequences.

Fillers with calcium hydroxyapatite make it possible to solve such aesthetic problems that preparations with hyaluronic acid cannot correct.

These injectable fillers include an active substance consisting of special microspheres (30%) and an aqueous gel carrier with optimal density (70%). The ratio of these components depends on the origin of calcium hydroxyapatite: it is obtained synthetically or isolated from certain sea corals.

Once under the skin, the filler fills all the necessary cavities and voids, which provides an instant wrinkle smoothing effect. After some time, it resolves, gradually being absorbed by the tissues. The drug, remaining in the skin, stimulates the active production of collagen, a protein of natural origin responsible for the firmness and elasticity of tissues.

Collagen fibers that form in the skin, in turn, contribute to the formation of stable structures that perform a connective tissue function.

After a certain period, calcium hydroxyapatite microspheres are gradually removed from the body, and the new muscle tissue obtained thanks to them retains its elasticity for quite a long time. This explains the prolonged effect of such fillers: a noticeable result is observed for up to two years, which is significantly longer than when using hyaluronic preparations.

Calcium norm, how much should you take

Before you start taking a dietary supplement, you should know your daily calcium intake.

The calcium level can be increased with the use of anabolic steroids, hormones, and excessive physical activity.

Rating of the best toothpastes for adults with hydroxyapatite

Theodent 300

The hygiene product belongs to the luxury category. It is characterized by a high content of theobromine, which, when interacting with enamel, produces natural hydroxyapatite. It helps treat caries in the early stages of development. When using the product within 7 days, it is possible to localize and stop the course of the disease at the white spot stage. With longer use, the disease is completely cured.

Therapeutic products provide natural remineralization of hard tissues, making them stronger and reducing sensitivity. When used during orthodontic treatment, the composition carefully cares for implants and veneers. The only drawback is the high price.

Miradent Mirasensitive Hap

The toothpaste is based on the Hap+ duo-complex, which fights tooth hypersensitivity. The active formula contains 30% hydroxyapatite. It effectively affects the enamel, removing defects in it. With regular use, it fills open channels to dentin.

Thanks to the presence of potassium citrate in the recipe, it is possible to quickly relieve pain. The substance penetrates through the dentinal canals and blocks nerve irritation.

The composition contains xylitol and a high fluoride content. They effectively remineralize hard surfaces and restore them. You forget about pain and trips to the dentist.

Parodontol Active

The products are designed specifically for the active restoration of hard dental tissues. Biologically active hydroxyapatite provides effective remineralization. It fills all the gaps, thereby preventing the development of carious formations. The surface acquires an even, smooth structure. Painful manifestations are excluded.

Abrasive components serve to thoroughly clean the surface. They remove all dirt and prevent the appearance of tartar. Yarrow and nettle extracts prevent plaque from re-settling. With regular use, it is possible to cure caries at an early stage and prevent the recurrence of diseases.

Side effects of calcium supplements

With uncontrolled intake of the element, hypercalcemia is observed, which negatively affects the functioning of the entire body. Main side effects during self-medication:

• upset stool, bloating, constipation;
• formation of kidney stones;
• decreased effectiveness of other medications;
• numbness, muscle spasms;
• toxicity of the supplement's auxiliary components;
• increased irritability.

If you have any symptoms of calcium overdose, you should consult a doctor.

conclusions

1. The introduction of calcium hydroxyapatite in dilution in combination with ultrasound exposure made it possible to stimulate neoangiogenesis, enhance the synthetic activity of cells, significantly increase the number of collagen and elastin fibers and remodel both the superficial and deeper layers of the dermis.
2. The procedures were well tolerated, and patient satisfaction was high.
3. The results obtained indicate that the treatment with MFU-V does not disrupt, but, on the contrary, enhances the synthetic activity of cells, which makes it possible to obtain a synergistic effect when introducing CaHA to improve skin tightening.

You can learn more about the Ulthera® System at www.pro.ulthera.ru

Interaction with other drugs

Before using several types of medications, you should consult a doctor. At least 2 hours should pass between taking calcium and sodium fluoride, bisphosphonates, tetracyclines, and glycosides. This is because the element can increase or decrease the therapeutic and toxic effects of drugs.

The absorption of calcium is reduced when taken simultaneously with zinc, while calcium does not allow the body to be saturated with manganese and iron. When using prednisolone, the excretion of the substance increases. Calcium absorption is facilitated by additional intake of magnesium and vitamin D.

results

We showed that after combined treatment (administration of diluted CaHA and exposure to MFU-V), there was a significant increase in most indicators of cell proliferative and synthetic activity.

The combination of methods improved blood supply to tissues, which activated angiogenesis and increased the synthetic activity of cells, including the production of elastin fibers . A slight subsequent increase in the number of elastin fibers was also observed after ultrasound treatment. This may indicate that microfocused ultrasound does not damage the elastin fibers formed after the injection of filler diluted with saline, but, on the contrary, stimulates an increase in their quantity and improvement in quality. It should be noted that a study of the effect of ultrasound on skin tightening in Mongoloid patients based on skin biopsy showed an increase in the number of elastin fibers14-15.

It has been previously reported that there is an increase in the amount of type III collagen with a gradual equalization of the ratio of type I collagen2-13. In this study, we showed that the slight predominance of type III collagen was not statistically significant, since both types of collagen accumulated in almost the same ratio (0.6:0.7). The changes we identified differed from the data of previous studies, where type I collagen predominated in the facial skin after treatment. This may be due to the characteristics of the skin of the anterior abdominal wall. The skin of the anterior abdominal wall, both in terms of morphology and immunohistochemical characteristics, differs from the skin of the face. There were practically no signs of epidermal atrophy; the ratio of collagen types I and III differed, while there were more elastin fibers. These features, as well as functional differences, may explain the differences in age-related changes in these areas.

Our results are consistent with histological studies of skin treated with high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) and radiofrequency waves: HIFU treatment resulted in neocollagenogenesis in the middle and deep reticular dermis and neoelastogenesis in the deep reticular dermis14-15.

The results obtained are also consistent with the histological data obtained from the clinical case reported by Casabona G et al.9-13: MFU-V treatment did not lead to a change in the histological characteristics or the effectiveness of CaHA; on the contrary, it helped to enhance the formation of new collagen and elastin fibers and improve their quality.

Calcium-rich foods

Dairy products are the most powerful source of calcium. The macronutrient is also found in greens, nuts, vegetables and fruits. The table shows foods by category that are high in calcium.

Almost all foods contain calcium, but in lower concentrations.

Calcium tablets or eggshells

The shell of an egg is made of calcium carbonate - it is essentially limestone or chalk. It can be purchased in tablets at the pharmacy and is registered as food coloring E170. Eggshells are no better than medicine, because before use they must be dried, disinfected and turned into powder. The product is allowed to be taken if there is a shortage of macronutrients. It is just pointless to try to dissolve calcium carbonate in water since it is insoluble in liquid. In the stomach, hydrochloric acid dissolves the powder from the shell.

Calcium is a macronutrient that takes part in all processes in the body. Its excess or deficiency causes the development of many diseases. You cannot self-medicate; calcium should only be prescribed by a specialist, based on the patient’s condition and symptoms.

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Procedure for injecting filler

In modern cosmetology, the use of fillers is one of the safest, most effective and fastest methods for solving aesthetic and medical problems. Contour plastic surgery using these drugs can only be performed by a specialist who has been trained in a special program and has a certificate giving him the right to use this product in practice. These are the ones who work at the VIRTUSCLINIC Center for Aesthetic Cosmetology.

On average, the procedure lasts 30 minutes and is performed under local anesthesia. The doctor cleans the facial surface and determines the areas where the drug will be administered, leaving markings there in the form of dots. Some specialists take photos before and after the procedure.

The cosmetologist demonstrates the drug to the patient in its entire packaging, with the obligatory indication of its expiration date and dosage. The filler is injected using a very thin needle subcutaneously in the previously designated area. The specialist chooses the method and methods of administering the drug independently, taking into account all the features of the procedure and the patient.

The session ends with a light massage, which helps to evenly distribute the filler under the skin.

The effect of the procedure is noticeable immediately after it is performed, but the maximum result usually appears after 10–14 days.