Mineral
Calcium
The main mineral of bones and teeth, also vital for muscles and nerves.
- Also known as
- Calcium orotate
- Evidence
- Established nutrient Evidence level 5 of 5
- Body systems
- Bones, Vitality and immunity
In research
About 99 per cent of the body's calcium is stored in bones and teeth. The rest is needed for muscle contraction, nerve signals and blood clotting.
Strength of evidence
Established nutrient Evidence level 5 of 5An essential nutrient with well defined roles and recommended intakes. How we grade evidence.
What we know
- The main mineral of bone. Food is the preferred source.
What we do not know yet
- The cardiovascular effects of high-dose calcium supplements, which remain debated.
Safety and cautions
Excess can cause constipation and kidney stones in susceptible people. Calcium reduces the absorption of iron, thyroid medicines and some antibiotics if taken at the same time.
Research and answers
Products that contain it
Ingredient pages summarise traditional use and the direction of published research for education. They are not claims about any product and are not medical advice.
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