Calcium is necessary for the development and maintenance of strong teeth and bones. Calcium is the most frequently occurring mineral in the body and about 99 percent of calcium in the body is stored in your bones. Calcium helps your heart, muscles and nerves function properly. While this mineral is vital, too much of it can cause side effects.
Uses
Calcium is best known for preventing and treating osteoporosis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Calcium helps keep your teeth strong and healthy, which helps prevent your teeth from cracking and breaking while chewing hard substances. The UMMC states that calcium is also recommended for patients who suffer from hypoparathyroidism. Calcium may be effective for the treatment of premenstrual syndrome, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and obesity, but more scientific research is needed to back these claims.
Side Effects
Taking too much calcium can cause side effects such as upset stomach, nausea, vomiting and constipation. Large doses of calcium can also cause loss of appetite, mental confusion, irregular heart rhythm, kidney toxicity and increased urination. Certain medical conditions, such as hyperparathyroidism, sarcoidosis and kidney failure, can cause your body to produce too much calcium, which can result in the same side effects.
Recommended Daily Intake
The recommended daily intake for adults is 1,000 mg of calcium for those who are under the age of 50. Older adults -- people who are at least 51 years old -- need more calcium due to the increased risk of osteoporosis and require 1,200 mg of calcium per day. Pregnant and breastfeeding women also require more calcium: 1,300 mg per day. Your doctor may recommend more calcium in certain circumstances, such as for the prevention of colon cancer, and could recommend 1,800 mg or more per day.
Considerations
If you have a history of kidney stones or suffer from conditions that could cause your body to produce too much calcium, ask your doctor if you should take calcium supplements before taking them. Maintaining a healthy calcium level in your body is important so you do not develop soft or weakened bones by not getting enough calcium or, conversely, suffer side effects from getting too much calcium.
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