Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the human body, comprising over 1.5% of the total body weight. 99% is found in teeth & bones, the other 1% is found in blood and soft tissue.

Absorption of Calcium is intimately associated with, and dependent upon, vitamin D. Deficiencies of vitamin D and calcium are often, therefore, related. Calcium & magnesium are minerals that work in tandem in a healthy body and a dietary excess of one will lead to a consequent reduction in the level of the other, leading to imbalance.

Food sources of Calcium include:

Kelp, Cheddar cheese, Sesame seeds, Sardines with soft bones, Kale, Turnip Greens, Almonds, Watercress, Parsley, Plain Yoghurt, Goats milk, Sunflower seeds, Broccoli, Whole milk, Canned salmon, Blackcurrants, Eggs, Nuts.

Functions of Calcium:

Essential for formation of bones & teeth (especially in pregnancy), Involved in nerve impulse transmission, Required for muscular contraction, Involved in the action of enzyme systems and cell communication, Necessary for blood clotting and blood pressure regulation, Essential for healthy heart function, Involved in the basic structure of cells.

Symptoms of Calcium Deficiency Include:

Rickets in children, Tetany, Muscle cramps, Loss of muscle tone, Osteoporosis, Poor tooth structure, Irregular heartbeat & palpitations, High blood pressure, Colon cancer.

Enemies of Calcium:

Caffeine, Alcohol, Phosphates (very high in soft drinks, and meat), Protein, Sodium & Sugar all increase Calcium excretion.

Calcium Deficiency High Risk Groups Include:

Elderly, especially women
People on low fat diets
Post-menopausal women
Highly stressed people
Body builders, and people on high protein diets

RDA for Calcium

US RDA: 800-1200mg

EU RDA: 800mg