Your nervous system is a communication system that spans your entire body. The brain and the spinal cord are called the central nervous system because they coordinate overall function and trigger reactions. Your nervous system requires many nutrients to perform normally. One important nutrient is calcium, which helps transmit signals between nerves.
Function
A neuron is a specialized cell of the nervous system. Your body has billions of neurons that form a complex network. Neurons have axons, or elongated extensions that conduct nerve impulses away from the cell, and dendrites, which receive nerve impulses from other cells. The axon of one neuron lies close to, but does not touch, the dendrites of another neuron. The gap between two neurons is called a synapse.
Role of Calcium
Ions, such as calcium, can travel into a neuron. In response, the axon releases neurotransmitters into the synapse. The next neuron responds to the signal and transmits it down the line to the next neuron. In this way, messages are passed across the nervous system. The amount of neurotransmitter released is directly proportional to the number of calcium ions that flow into the neuron. Potassium and sodium similarly aid in the transmission of nerve impulses.
Effects
The exact biochemical processes that accompany insufficient or excessive calcium levels are complex. The essential importance of calcium is that the proper amount allows your nerves to communicate effectively. If the level of calcium is too low, for example, your muscles might spasm as the nerves become hypersensitive. If calcium levels are too high, your muscles might get stiff and hard as the nerves become less sensitive.
Considerations
Your body doesn't produce calcium, so you need to obtain it from your diet. Otherwise, your body will begin to strip calcium from your bones to meet its various needs, including the proper functioning of your nervous system. Your calcium needs depend on your gender and age. For example, men between the ages of 19 and 50 require between 1,000 and 2,500 mg of calcium a day, according to MayoClinic.com. The upper limit lowers to 2,000 mg for men between the ages of 51 and 70. Talk to your doctor or nutritionist about your calcium needs to ensure your nervous system functions properly and to maintain healthy bones.
References
- "The Encyclopedia of Nutrition and Good Health"; Robert A. Ronzio; 2003
- "Nutrition, Volume 1"; Paul M. Insel, et al.; 2004
- "Foundations and Clinical Applications of Nutrition: A Nursing Approach"; Michele Grodner, et al.; 2004
- MayoClinic.com; Calcium Supplements: Do Men Need Them Too?; Todd B. Nippoldt; December 2010
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