As doctors and scientists learn more about the aging process, they are finding that many things in the body are interconnected. Doctors used to treat a problem individually, but now research shows that it may be better to take a holistic approach with preventative medicine.

For example, almost everyone knows that calcium is needed for strong bones and teeth. However, now it is being discovered that calcium also can contribute to a healthy heart. Perhaps that is because calcium helps control weight, which is a contributing factor in heart disease.

Calcium also reduces the risk of colon cancer and is beneficial for people who have diabetes. Both conditions are affected by the level of calcium in our bodies.

Clearly, calcium supplements are beneficial for an aging America. But many prefer not to take those large chalky-tasting pills on a regular basis. For some, loading up on low-fat dairy products is a less-than-ideal alternative.

So Mosaic Nutraceuticals of Dallas introduced a novel way to get the recommended calcium supplement - in a butter-caramel soft candy chew.

"America needs calcium and America likes candy," said Charles Townsend, chief executive officer of Mosaic. "We just combined the two and now it's fun and tasty to take your calcium." The product is available in regular or sugar-free varieties.