Calcium is the most abundant, essential mineral in the human body. Of the two
to three pounds of calcium contained in the average body, 99% is located in the
bones and teeth. Calcium is needed to form bones and teeth and is also required
for blood clotting, transmission of signals in nerve cells, and muscle
contraction. The importance of calcium for preventing osteoporosis is probably
its most well-known role.
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
Used for
Amount
Why
Gestational Hypertension
1,200 to 1,500 mg daily
[3 stars] Supplementing with calcium may reduce the risk of gestational hypertension.
500 to 1,200 mg daily depending on age and other calcium sources
[3 stars] As lactose-containing foods are among the best dietary sources of calcium, lactose-intolerant people may want to use calcium supplements as an alternative source.
800 to 1,500 mg daily depending on age and dietary calcium intake
[3 stars] Calcium supplements help prevent osteoporosis, especially for girls and premenopausal women. It is often recommended to help people already diagnosed with osteoporosis.
[2 stars] Continuing to take prenatal vitamins will help ensure your body gets the nutrients it needs for breast-feeding. Especially important is continued calcium intake.
[2 stars] The malabsorption that occurs in celiac disease can lead to multiple nutritional deficiencies. Supplementing with calcium may correct a deficiency.
[2 stars] In a study of obese people following a low-calorie diet, those receiving a calcium supplement lost significantly more weight than those given a placebo.
Obtain a total of 1,500 to 2,000 mg daily, including both supplement and food sources
[2 stars] Calcium needs double during pregnancy. Supplementing with calcium may reduce the risk of preeclampsia and pre-term delivery and improve the bone strength of the fetuses.
1,000 to 1,500 mg per day (plus the same amount of calcium)
[2 stars] In preliminary research, people with chronic tension-type headaches who were also suffering from severe vitamin D deficiency experienced an improvement in their symptoms after supplementing with vitamin D and calcium.
[1 star] Despite the lack of evidence that calcium and vitamin D supplements alone are helpful to amenorrheic women, they are still generally recommended to prevent the added burden of calcium and vitamin D deficiency from further contributing to bone loss.
[1 star] Muscles that are calcium-deficient tend to be hyperactive and therefore might be more likely to cramp. Calcium may help prevent menstrual cramps by maintaining normal muscle tone.
[1 star] Some doctors recommend calcium to people with gum diseases. Calcium given to people with periodontal disease has been shown to reduce bleeding of the gums and loose teeth.
[1 star] Taking large amounts of the combination of calcium and vitamin D has been reported to produce a marked reduction in the incidence of migraines in several women.
[1 star] Calcium levels have been reported to be low in people with MS. In one study, people given a combination of cod liver oil, magnesium, and calcium had a significantly reduced number of MS attacks.
The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2014.
