Total calcium absorbed keeps increasing with load. Consequently, calcium absorption efficiency is greater if calcium is ingested in divided doses throughout the day.
However, with a high enough intakes at one time, the calcium need for the day can be met from an increasing proportion of paracellular absorption. Girls on low calcium intakes had higher calcium absorption efficiency.
The efficiency of calcium absorption is also strongly influenced by physiological stages of life including: lactation , adolescence, aging and habitual dietary Ca intake.
There was indication that there is a progressive decrease in intestinal Ca absorption with advanced age, particularly over age 70.
Another major physiological factor is the effect of vitamin D on Ca absorption by the intestine.
Physiological factors affecting calcium absorption
