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Calcium is a white, malleable, metallic element. Calcium is needed for the formation and maintenance of bones, the development of teeth and healthy gums. It is necessary for blood clotting, stabilizes many body functions and is thought to assist in bowel cancer. It also helps with protein structuring in DNA and RNA.
Food Sources of Calcium
Milk and milk products (yogurt, cheese), Tofu, Broccoli, Calcium fortified orange juice, some fortified cereals, drak leafy vegetables are the rich source of calcium. Herbs that contain calcium include alfalfa, burdock root, cayenne, chamomile, chickweed, chicory, dandelion, eyebright, fennel seed, fenugreek, flaxseed, kelp, lemongrass, mullein, nettle, oat straw, paprika, parsley, peppermint, plantain, raspberry leaves, red clover, rose hips, shepherd's purse, violet leaves, yarrow, and yellow dock.
Benefits and Functions of Calcium
Helps build strong bones and teeth, Involved in muscle contractions and nerve function. Calcium is the main constituent of hydroxyapatite , the principal mineral in bones and teeth. Calcium absorption and excretion are controlled by several hormones and vitamin D. An adequate calcium intake is vital to health, particularly in times of growth, eg childhood, adolescence, pregnancy, and also during lactation. It has a natural calming and tranquilizing effect and is necessary for maintaining a regular heartbeat and the transmission of nerve impulses. It helps with lowering cholesterol, muscular growth, the prevention of muscle cramps and normal blood clotting.
Dosage
1,000 mg per day for people aged 19-50 years 1,200 mg per day for people over the age of 51 years. The maximum level of calcium is 2.5 g/day. It is also recommended one to two parts of calcium and phosphorus to one part of magnesium.
What are the deficiency symptoms of Calcium?
Deficiency of calcium in bones can result from an inadequate supply of vitamin D which is essential for its absorption. This condition is know as Bone weakening - rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. Overdosage Signs of Calcium
Muscle and abdominal pain, Calcium kidney stones. Excess calcium supplementation has been associated with some mineral imbalances such as zinc, but combined with a magnesium deficiency it may cause deposits to form in your kidneys, which could cause kidney stones.
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