Calcium and Magnesium Metabolism in Early Life

Presents a summary of the state of knowledge of calcium and bone metabolism in early life. This text introduces concepts of the physiology and pathopyhsiology of mineral metabolism and covers calcium metabolism from pregnancy, the placenta and lactation, through to the neonate and the infant.

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This exciting new book introduces emerging concepts of the physiology and pathophysiology of mineral metabolism. Fetal, neonatal and infant growth challenge the mineral homeostatic system in a remarkable manner, and the interplay of genetics, hormone responses, nutrition and external physical stresses allow an interesting and complex array of interactions. Pregnancy, or lactation parcticularly, provides another view of mineral metabolism, a view from the organism that sacrifices its own mineral metabolism to advance the mineral requirements of the fetus and infant, respectively. New findings regarding dietary mineral requirements and hypertension in pregnancy are described. Significant adjustments occurring during pregancy and lactation allow the mother to maintain and possibly augment her bone mass. Calcium and Magnesium Metabolism in Early Life provides a stimulating introduction to the world of calcium and bone through a signficiant and critical portion of life.