Calcium is an essential mineral that plays a critical role in a variety of bodily functions, including bone health, nerve signaling, muscle function, and blood clotting. When calcium levels drop too low, it can lead to a range of symptoms and health problems such as muscle cramps, numbness and tingling around the fingers and toes, fatigue and irritability.
How much calcium do we need every day?
Children
1 to 3 years: 700 mg per day
4 to 8 years: 1,000 mg per day
9 to 18 years: 1,300 mg per day
Adults
19 to 50 years: 1,000 mg per day
51 to 70 years:
71+ years: 1,200 mg per day
Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women
Teenagers (14 to 18 years): 1,300 mg per day
Adults (19 to 50 years): 1,000 mg per day
Pregnant or breastfeeding women over 50: 1,200 mg per day