Quick guide to Calcium
Read the full guide
- healthy bones and teeth
- muscle contraction
- a healthy heart and nervous system
- blood pressure regulation and clotting
Absorption and metabolism
Vitamin D is necessary for absorption, which decreases with age.
Deficiency
Deficiency leads to nerve and bone disorders, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, pre-eclampsia of pregnancy and may contribute to colon cancer.
Sources
These include milk and leafy green vegetables.
Daily recommended dietary intakes
- Men - 1000 mg
- (14-18) - 1300 mg
- (over 50) - 1200 mg
- Women - 1000 mg
- (14-18) - 1300 mg
- (over 50) - 1200 mg
- Pregnancy - 1000 mg
- (14-18) - 1300 mg
- Lactation - 1000 mg
- (14-18) - 1300 mg
Toxic effects of excess intake
Toxic effects include nausea; vomiting; and kidney, heart and muscle damage.
Therapeutic uses of supplements
These include osteoporosis, high blood pressure, tooth problems, muscle cramps, pre-eclampsia and heart disease.
Interactions
Calcium works with magnesium and phosphorus in many body functions.
Cautions
Calcium supplements should be avoided by people who have impaired kidney function, a history of kidney or bladder stones, constipation or dehydration.