Preventive Intake: 500-800 mg (elemental) 1,000-1,600 mg (total)

Benefits:

• The total amount of calcium stated on the label is not indicative of what is absorbed as elemental calcium.
• Prevents bone loss.
• Lowers blood pressure and helps prevent heart disease.
• Increases immune system by strengthening cell membranes.
• Nourishes and calms the nervous system.
• Prevents colon cancer and pancreatic cancer.
• Insures healthy teeth.
• Decreases risk of stroke.
• Necessary for enzyme activation and blood clotting.
• Nerve pulse transmitter.
• Important for muscle contraction and tone.
  

Deficiencies May Cause: Increased muscular and nervous irritability, muscle spasms, muscle cramps, and tetany. Can lead to bone loss, tooth decay, periodontal disease, depression, hypertension and heart palpitations.

Food Sources: Milk, cheese, yogurt, sesame seeds, salmon, almonds, Brazil nuts, kale, chard, cooked spinach, pinto beans, fish, leafy greens, cabbage and tofu.