Calcium

What is it? 

Calcium is a mineral which is important for our bone strength. It can be found in foods like yoghurt, milk, cheese, cabbage, kale, broccoli, soy products tofu and fortified cereals. Vitamin D helps in the absorption of calcium we ingested.

Daily requirement of calcium according to age:

0-6 months:210 mg/day

7-12 months:270 mg/day

1-3 years:700 mg/day

4-8 years:1,000 mg/day

9-18 years:1,300 mg/day

19-50 years:1,000 mg/day

51 years and up:1,200 mg/day

Benefits

Calcium is necessary to maintain the health and strength of our bone and prevent osteoporosis (brittle bone). Besides strengthening our bone structure, calcium also helps prevent certain cancers like breast cancer in per-menopausal women, reduce PMS symptoms and help with blood pressure control.  

Possible side effects 

At normal dosing, calcium tablets sometimes cause bloatedness and constipation. At extremely high dose (out of recommendation range), it can cause calcium crystallization and lead to kidney stones.

Overdose on calcium can cause nausea, abnormal heartbeat, dry mouth, change in mental state, abdomen pain and even death. Do not take more than the recommended dosing.

Drug-Drug Interactions

Calcium may interfere the absorption of other minerals and certain medications, hence it will be best to consult your doctor before taking calcium tablets with other medications.

Patients with heart & kidney conditions, sarcoidosis and certain bone cancer should avoid calcium supplements and should always consult with their physician first.

Dosage 

Please follow the instructions of your doctor on the dosing.  

Health Tips