Calcium and Magnesium

Calcium

Since calcium is such a bulky mineral, manufacturers include only a portion of the RDI in atypical multivitamin. Because calcium plays an important role in bone building, muscle contraction and more, it’s important to ensure adequate intake from your diet. Some people, especially women, who have a greater risk of osteoporosis, may need an additional calcium supplement. When choosing calcium, as part of multivitamins or as an individual supplement, look for the calcium-citrate form.

Benefits of Calcium

• Promotes normal growth and development
• Helps prevent osteoporosis
• Builds strong bones and teeth
• Maintains strength and density of bones
• Helps the body utilize amino acids
• Helps prevent muscle cramps

Magnesium

Magnesium is essential for the use of calcium, and the two work hand-in-hand in the body. Some experts believe that magnesium deficiencies are more common than previously thought because so many factors interfere with magnesium absorption, including prolonged stress, consumption of coffee and soft drinks, taking diuretics and eating too much fat. Magnesium deficiencies can cause insulin resistance and can negatively affect smooth muscles and platelets, increasing the risk of hypertension. Magnesium deficiency has also been linked to dozens of other conditions, such as migraines, premenstrual syndrome, recurrent bacterial and fungal infections, muscle cramps and Alzheimer’s disease.

Benefits of Magnesium

• Assists in bone formation
• Supports normal function of nervous system
• Regulates normal heart rhythm
• Strengthens tooth enamel
• Helps maintain stable metabolism