The main pro-losing effect calcium exerts is related to its influence on adipocytes. More specifically, in the context of a low-calcium diet (as a low-calcium diet can be), the secretion of the two hormones parathormone (PTH) and calcitriol (1,2-dihydroxy-vitamin D) tends to be relatively high. Now, parathormone and calcitriol tend to favour the accumulation of calcium in adipocytes. And since, when adipocytes are full of calcium, they tend to be more difficult to empty of the fat they contain, the slimming process may be hindered. It is therefore clear, and herein lies the apparent paradox, that calcium supplementation, by promoting the depletion of calcium deposits in the adipocytes, can lead to the emptying of these of the fat contained therein. It should be noted, however, that this mechanism of calcium action on adipocytes only takes place in the context of a slimming diet and exercise regime. If calcium supplements were taken as part of an anabolic diet, it would be of no use.