What is Calcium?

In short

Calcium is a mineral. Your body stores it mainly in bones and teeth.

What does the body need it for?

Calcium is needed for the maintenance of normal bones. It contributes to normal muscle function.

Where is it found?

• Milk (200 ml)240 mg
• Emmental cheese (30 g)300 mg
• Yoghurt (150 g)180 mg

How much is good?

NRV (EU reference value)

800 mg

Too much

Safe upper limit (EFSA)

2,500 mg

Maximum per daily dose (BfR)

500 mg

Too much calcium can raise blood calcium levels and affect the kidneys. EFSA sets a tolerable upper intake level for adults of 2500 mg daily from food and supplements combined.

Interactions

• Calcium and Zinc

  High amounts of calcium can slightly lower zinc absorption. Best taken with different meals.

• Calcium and Osteoporosis medicines

  Keep the interval from the osteoporosis medicine stated in the package leaflet.

• Calcium and Antibiotics (currently taking)

  With certain antibiotics (for example doxycycline or ciprofloxacin) the antibiotic works less well otherwise. Take minerals at least 2 hours before or 4 to 6 hours after, see the package leaflet for details.

• Calcium and Thyroid hormone

  Take the thyroid tablet in the morning on an empty stomach, and minerals no sooner than 4 hours later.

• Calcium and Iron

  Calcium reduces iron absorption. Take 2 hours apart.

Other names

Kalzium, Ca, Calcio

Source

EU Regulation 432/2012; EFSA 2012