Description
"Calcium" is a naturally occurring mineral abundant in dairy products, leafy greens, nuts, and certain seafood. Found in bones, teeth, and cellular structures, it participates in enzymatic reactions, muscle contractions, and nerve transmission. Moreover, calcium engages with intracellular signaling pathways and metabolic processes, contributing to physiological equilibrium. It also interacts with structural proteins that support cellular integrity. Widely distributed in natural sources, calcium plays a fundamental role in the body's biochemical framework and mineral balance.
Functions in the Body
Category
Deficiency Symptoms
A calcium deficiency can cause low bone mass, numbness or tingling in fingers, abnormal heart rhythms, and convulsions.
Calcium
Warnings
High doses of calcium should be separated from other minerals due to potential interactions. Calcium interacts with medications like those for osteoporosis, low thyroid function, anticonvulsants, certain antibiotics, diuretics, and antacids. People with heart conditions should avoid high calcium supplementation unless advised by a healthcare provider.
Food Sources
Rich sources of calcium include dairy, spinach, bok choy, collard greens, kale, turnips, broccoli, salmon, and sardines.
Time Frame
Calcium is best taken before bedtime, unless included in an electrolyte formula, which may be taken earlier.
Depleted By
Calcium levels can be depleted by various factors, including alcohol, antacids, thyroid medications, corticosteroids, anticonvulsants, nicotine, laxatives, and immunosuppressants. Other factors that may reduce calcium levels are hormone replacements, diuretics, caffeine, and certain medications such as statins, fluoride, blood pressure medications, anti-cancer drugs, cardiac regulators, and antibiotics. Additionally, antivirals, muscle relaxants, antipsychotics, anxiolytics, antifungals, antiparasitics, NSAIDs, and opioids can further deplete calcium from the body.