Calcium-binding proteins provide a delicate balance in our brain
99% of our body’s calcium is in our bones. The other 1% is found in our nervous system. This small amount of calcium is an ionic form and serves a critical function as a signaler, providing cell communication throughout our bodies. Without calcium in our cells, we can’t think, feel, or move! However, the right balance of calcium must be maintained to prevent calcium overload.
Like a sponge soaking up water, calcium-binding proteins help serve this important function by buffering or neutralizing excess levels of calcium.
Please note: Calcium and joint health supplements have no effect on the calcium in the nervous system. The 1% of calcium found in the body’s nervous system is separate from the calcium found within our bones. If you are currently taking a calcium supplement, please continue to do so.
Calcium-binding protein levels decrease as we age
The aging process causes many changes in cells. For example, the rate at which cells divide slows down. Within the brain cell, production of calcium-binding proteins also decreases. As a result, calcium ion levels rise and begin to interfere with the brain cell’s normal functions such as learning and memory.
Unfortunately, there are no food sources of calcium-binding proteins. Eating fruits and vegetables provides a great source for anti-oxidants and promotes overall cell health but there is no direct way to increase levels of calcium-binding proteins in our nerve cells.
Apoaequorin is a replacement calcium-binding protein
Apoaequorin is found in a unique species of jellyfish called Aequorea victoria and is nearly identical to the same proteins produced in our brain cells. Imagine, the simplest nervous system assisting the most complex nervous system in all creation!
University laboratory research has proven apoaequorin is neuroprotective. Human trials have shown apoaequorin is safe and effective at helping memory concerns that we experience as we age.
Watering a plant, a simple illustration:
Most people are familiar with how to take care of a plant. One of the most important elements that keeps a plant alive is a consistent source of water; not too little and not too much! A plant uses water to operate every aspect of its anatomy. When a plant is watered, it can only survive if the water is free to drain from the soil. If the water does not have an exit, the plant will begin to drown; becoming unhealthy. Although water is the life-source of the plant, too much of it can cause it to drown.
Calcium acts the same way within the central nervous system of the human body. Every human needs calcium in order to survive and lead a normal, healthy life. But just like the water’s relationship with the plant, the right amount of calcium is needed within a brain cell for proper function.
