This mineral is extremely important for maintaining proper acid/alkaline balance (pH) in the body, for strong bones and teeth, for regulation of the heart beat, and for proper muscular function.

Most interest in calcium concerns bone density and the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, a thinning of the bones that can result in susceptibility to fractures of the hips and other bones. Calcium supplementation has been shown to help increase bone density and to slow bone loss, even in post-menopausal women.

Low calcium levels can result in muscles spasms or leg cramps, and may contribute to other health challenges.


References

Elders PJM, et al. Long-term effects of calcium supplementation on bone loss in perimenopausal women. J Bone Min Res. 1994; 9:963-70.

Devine A, et al. A 4-year follow-up study of the effects of calcium supplementation on bone density in elderly postmenopausal women. Osteoporosis Int. 1997; 7:23-28.

Murray MT. Osteoporosis Prevention and Treatment--Beyond Calcium. Natural Medicine Journal. 1999; 2: 3-13.
Mazaregos-Ramos E, et al. Consumption of soft drinks with phosphoric acid as a risk factor for the development of hypocalcemia in children: A case-control study. J Pediatr. 1995; 126: 940-2.