Calcium consumption is important because of its role in helping you build strong bones. But calcium is used for a variety of other purposes in the body, and a diet deficient in this mineral can result in health problems independent of your bones. Nerve conduction in particular relies on calcium to regulate its function.
Calcium Function
Calcium's function in the nervous system controls sodium as it passes through the membranes between cells. When calcium is not present in sufficient amounts, it leads to an inability to control sodium. This excites the membranes of cells and can lead to neuromuscular spasms that manifest as tremors or muscle cramps.
Calcium Channels
Calcium channels are the residence of calcium within your nerves. These channels are home to calcium ions, and they regulate sodium and nerve function. Nerve damage is often connected to disruptions in these calcium channels, which interfere with the flow of calcium and therefore affect nerve function. Nerves can heal this calcium channel damage on their own, but it can take months or years to occur.
Calcium Dosing
Calcium deficiencies rarely develop in people whose diets are not restricted, but you might struggle to take in adequate amounts of calcium through your diet. Calcium supplements can be useful in boosting the calcium in your body; the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking calcium in amounts of 500 milligrams at a time. Do not take more than 2,500 milligrams of calcium total from both natural sources and supplements.
Considerations
If you are concerned about your body's calcium levels and the effects on nerve function, talk with your doctor. Nerve function is a very complex subject and can easily be misunderstood. Many different factors affect nerve function, and misidentifying calcium as the cause could prevent you from properly treating your condition.
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