Calcium, the most plentiful mineral found in the human body, ideally comprises 1.5 to 2% of an adult's total body weight. Every cell and organ in the body depends on calcium for proper functioning. Teeth and bones contain the majority of the body's calcium (about 99%), where it is stored for future uses.
The body uses calcium for:
Digestion
Blood clotting
Nerve signal transmission (electrolyte)
Acid/alkaline balancing of blood.
We, as a society especially women over the age of 45 are routinely told by doctors, the government and the media to supplement with 1000-1500 mg of calcium daily. Women are led to believe that they are particularly prone to calcium deficiency. This is due to their presumed higher levels of estrogen which apparently restricts calcium absorption. Unfortunately, getting enough calcium won't guarantee a lifetime of healthy bones. Interestingly, no other mammal on the planet consumes dairy or supplements with calcium after they are weaned. Easy on the stomach.
