Calcium
Calcium is among the minerals necessary for optimal health of the body.
What does calcium do?
This mineral ranks as the most plentiful in your body, with 99% of all calcium residing in teeth and bones. During bone development, calcium creates crystals that give strength to developing bone. Its role extends beyond supporting healthy bones; it is also vital for:
- Muscle contraction
- Blood vessel contraction and expansion
- The secretion of hormones and enzymes
- Transmitting messages through the nervous system
Studies have proven its impact on cardiovascular health resulting from higher calcium consumption. Additionally, scientific evidence suggests that higher calcium consumption may help to maintain optimal weight as well.
What daily calcium intake should you target?
Your calcium requirements vary based on your age and sex. Generally speaking, infants and babies require approximately 200-260 mg, children and adolescents need 700-1300 mg, while adults require between 1000-1200 mg.
When evaluating calcium forms, consider organic versus inorganic varieties. "Organic," from a chemical perspective, refers to salts containing carbon-hydrogen or carbon-carbon bonds. Inorganic salts lack these bonds.
Notably, organic salt forms (such as citrate) demonstrate superior absorption compared to inorganic salts (such as carbonate). However, organic salts generally provide lower amounts of elemental calcium.
