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Calcium is the most abundant
mineral in the human body. Your body contains 2 to 3 pounds of
calcium. For proper calcium absorption, vitamin D, fluoride and
silicon are needed. Calcium works closely with phosphorus and
magnesium.
Natural Food Sources
Almonds, Brazil nuts, blackstrap molasses, broccoli, calcium
fortified cereal & juice, caviar, cheese, cottage cheese, green
leafy vegetables, kelp, milk products, canned salmon & sardines,
tofu, turnip greens, yogurt.
Main Functions
Calcium is necessary for bone and tooth formation, heart
function, blood coagulation and muscle contraction. Calcium has
a role in controlling blood pressure and may help prevent
colorectal cancer, high blood pressure, heart disease, PMS and
osteoporosis. Leg cramps may be alleviated with calcium.
Deficiency Symptoms
Muscle cramps, tingling in the arms and legs, cramps, joint
pain, heart palpitations, dental cavities, insomnia and stunted
growth are some symptoms of calcium deficiency. Brittle bones, a
humped spine and osteoporosis may result over time. Children
with extreme calcium deficiency may develop rickets, a disease
that causes deformed bones. Too much magnesium or phosphorus in
the diet may lead to a calcium deficiency, as can excessive
smoking, alcohol or consumption of soft drinks.
Toxicity Symptoms
If greater than several thousand mg of calcium are consumed
daily, symptoms such as confusion, constipation, nausea,
bloating, irregular heart beat, excessive bone calcification,
kidney stones, poor iron and zinc absorption and calcium
deposits in the arteries and veins may result.
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