Calcium
There is more calcium in the body than any other mineral and it has several important functions.
These include:
It is thought that calcium may help lower high blood pressure and protect against colon and breast cancer, although more evidence is needed to confirm this. A lack of calcium could lead to a condition called rickets in children or osteoporosis in later life.
Good sources of calcium
Good sources of calcium include:
How much calcium do I need?
Adults need 700mg of calcium a day. You should be able to get all the calcium you need from your daily diet.
What happens if I take too much calcium?
Taking high doses of calcium (over 1500mg a day) could lead to stomach pain and diarrhoea.
What does the Department of Health advise?
You should be able to get all the calcium you need by eating a varied and balanced diet.
If you take calcium supplements, do not take too much. Taking 1,500mg or less a day is unlikely to cause any harm.