Calcium

 

            The most abundant minerals in the body, calcium constitutes 1.5%-2% of total body weight.  Calcium works with magnesium to regulate heartbeat, muscle contraction, and nerve conduction.  If there is an insufficient amount of calcium in the blood, an increase in parathyroid hormone will be released which will draw calcium out of the bones and into the blood.  In addition to vitamin D aiding calcium absorption, vitamins A and C support normal membrane transport of calcium.

             Calcium can improve the absorption of vitamin B12 however; too much calcium can interfere with absorption of magnesium, manganese, zinc, and iron.  Exercise has been shown to improve calcium absorption, whereas lack of exercise can lessen calcium absorption. Calcium absorption decreases with age, and some supplements are poorly absorbed if they are not ionic calcium.  Foods containing oxalic acid, like spinach, chard, rhubarb, and chocolate can prevent calcium absorption.

             Calcium is needed for muscle contraction and the regulation of the heartbeat.  Calcium stimulates heart contractions and influences the release of certain neurotransmitters.  Calcium can be a natural cure for heart palpitations, diseases of the muscles like restless leg syndrome, and diseases of the structural system.

Calcium deficiency symptoms include: Rickets                                  Osteomalacia Osteoporosis                         Otosclerosis Muscle cramps                      Heart palpitations Anxiety                                  Tetany Restless leg syndrome            Brittle nails Irritability                               Confusion Insomnia                                Chronic depression

Foods high in calcium include: Broccoli                             Cauliflower Peas                                   Pinto beans       Adzuki beans                      Soybeans Almonds                             Hazelnuts Brazil nuts                           Organic milk Yogurt