Calcium

Calcium is an essential macromineral for human nutrition, and is the most abundant mineral in the human body. The body stores more than 99 percent of calcium in the bones and teeth; the rest is throughout the body in blood, muscle and intracellular fluid. Calcium supports bone health, influences muscle and blood vessel contraction, impacts hormone and muscle secretion, and is important in neurological signaling. In the diet, calcium is found in dairy products and dark green leafy vegetables. Calcium supplements may be necessary for growing children and older adults, although calcium intake should be balanced with other minerals such as magnesium and potassium.