Women must build up a calcium bank as early as childhood

MANILA, Philippines - CalChews calcium supplement discusses women’s health by answering some commonly-asked questions.

Is there a difference between women’s nutritional needs and those of men?

In general, women need fewer calories than men, they tend to be smaller and have higher fat percentages. Females need around 1,200 calories per day while men need about a few hundred calories more. This means women have to be more careful about what they eat, choosing lesser calories but more nutrient-dense items for their meals.

What are the nutrients that women need in their diet?

Aside from a healthy and balanced diet, women may need to have regular and adequate vitamins and minerals like iron and calcium. 

During their monthly period, women lose blood, and this may lead to iron deficiency. They also need more iron when they are pregnant. Among other things, a lack of iron in the diet can lead to fatigue and lack of energy. It can also affect the immune system, making them more susceptible to some illnesses, according to the 2011 UK guidelines on the management of iron deficiency in pregnancy.

Strong bones are one of the foundations of a productive life, one that increases in importance in the senior years. Women are more prone to a condition called osteoporosis once menopause occurs and estrogen production declines. This nutrient is important for strong bones and good posture even post-menopause.  Experts advise building up a calcium bank as early as during childhood, to support bone development.  Based on the Institute of Medicine’s 2011 Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium and Vitamin D, the daily calcium recommendations are 1,300 milligrams (mg) a day for women 9 to 18; 1,000 mg. a day for women 19 to 50; and 1,200 mg. a day for women 51 and older.

How can women make sure they get enough of these nutrients?

A balanced diet of nutrient-dense food is recommended. Fruits, vegetables, and lean sources of protein are essential for maintaining good health. Supplementation may be needed, though, for today’s busy Filipina may not be able to meet her recommended daily intake of important nutrients.

Many foods are now fortified with vitamins and minerals, and there are supplements that are available on the market. Some women, however, find it difficult to take supplements, citing reasons such as formulations that are hard to swallow or leave an aftertaste.

CalChews is a calcium supplement that comes in convenient chewy candy form that makes it easier for women to consume.  It also contains vitamin D3 and vitamin K. Vitamin D helps enhance calcium absorption in the body and helps with bone formation, playing a critical role in maintaining bone density while vitamin K helps in the formation of normal bone proteins.^*

CalChews is available at leading drugstores in Creamy Caramel and Rich Chocolate flavors.