Calcium and magnesium are minerals that are essential for proper functioning of the body. According to the National Institute of Health, adults need 1,000 to 1,200 mg of calcium each day, and foods such as dairy products and eggnog are rich sources of calcium. At the same time, MayoClinic.com recommends 40 to 320 mg of magnesium per day, depending upon age. Green leafy vegetables, nuts, peas and beans are rich sources of magnesium. However, many Americans do not get sufficient amounts of calcium and magnesium from their diet and may need dietary supplements to fill the gap.
Benefits of Calcium
Calcium is essential for the proper functioning of many parts of the body including the heart, skeletal system, nervous system and endocrine system. Calcium helps to regulate the rhythm of the heart, thereby promoting efficient circulation of blood. Calcium helps in the clotting of blood. It also helps in the proper conduction of the nerve impulses, and simulates the production of hormones in the body. Calcium plays a major role in building and maintaining bones, joints and healthy teeth. The deficiency of calcium is a major contributing factor to conditions such as osteoporosis and rickets, and can cause muscle aches and pains, twitching, spasms and cramps; it can also reduced bone density.
Side Effects of Calcium
Normal doses of calcium do not cause any side effects. However, high doses of calcium can cause constipation. According to the University of Washington, high doses of calcium can increase the risk of kidney stones and gastritis, and may make the body fluids alkaline. Calcium supplements may also increase the risk of heart disease, although more research is needed in this field.
Benefits of Magnesium
Magnesium is essential for healthy bones and teeth because it helps the body absorb calcium. It also helps to maintain heart rhythm and clotting of blood by promoting calcium absorption. Magnesium helps muscles function properly by promoting muscle relaxation. As a result, magnesium may be of immense help to patients with fibromyalgia. MayoClinic.com states that lack of magnesium may lead to irritability, muscle weakness and irregular heartbeat.
Side Effects of Magnesium
Use of magnesium is generally safe, although intravenous administration may cause dizziness, flushing, muscle paralysis and breathing troubles. Overdose of magnesium can cause blurred vision, coma, dizziness, severe drowsiness, abnormal urination and slow heartbeat. However, according to MayoClinic.com, these symptoms are rare in individuals with normal kidney function.
Member Comments