Biological ImportanceOne of the most essential minerals in the human body, calcium accounts for approximately 1.5% of total body weight. A majority of this is housed in the teeth and the skeleton of the body, while the remainder is distributed in other areas such as the blood stream. It is essential for the human body to have calcium in order to function properly. The first way in which calcium is important is that it is a vital part of the formation of strong bones and teeth. Calcium is also needed for the storage of glycogen. Glycogen is what gives your muscles the energy they need and is important for muscle contractions. Calcium also activates the protein fibrin which is used for blood clotting, to regulate the heart beat, muscle tone, muscle contraction and nerve conduction. Calcium is a vital component of spinal fluid and the fluid surrounding your brain.
Reference ranges for blood tests, showing adult ma...
English: Blossom end rot (calcium deficiency) on a...
Oats-MineralPotassium-Deficiency-8476The calcium level in this area is kept constant regardless of what is happening to the levels of calcium in the rest of your body. Calcium is also an ingredient in bile and helps digest fats.
Recommended Daily Minimum RequirementsAccording to the Institute of Medicine at the National Academy of Sciences, the recommendations for adequate intake of calcium are as follows:ÃÂ0-6 months: 210 mgÃÂ6-12 months: 270 mgÃÂ1-3 years: 500 mgÃÂ4-8 years: 800 mgÃÂ9-18 years: 1300 mgÃÂ19-50 years: 1000 mgÃÂ51+ years: 1200 mgÃÂPostmenopausal women not taking hormone replacement therapy: 1500 mgÃÂPregnant and lactating women (younger than 18 years): 1300 mgÃÂPregnant and lactating women (older than 18 years): 1000 mgSince loss of calcium and the risk of osteoporosis are greatly increased at an older age, the daily requirement of calcium is also greater. In addition, it is essential for women to take the recommended calcium in their diets while pregnant...