Calcium and Magnesium Supplement

Being two of the most important minerals, calcium and magnesium work well together to maintain strength and bone density. Read on to know more about calcium and magnesium supplement.
Calcium and Magnesium Supplement
Calcium and magnesium are two important minerals, that work in synchronization, to carry out various functions in the human body. It is essential to have a balanced amount of both these minerals, as the deficiency or excess of either one can cause various disorders. Calcium and magnesium are essential for the appropriate functioning of the bones and muscles. Calcium and magnesium supplement needs to be incorporated as a part of one's diet, in case, appropriate amounts of the minerals is not being obtained by the food, being consumed.

Importance of Calcium and Magnesium
Calcium is essential for bone and teeth development, to maintain a healthy blood count and for the regulation of heartbeats and pulse. It also regulates the transition of nutrients to and from the cellular membranes, promotes the clotting of blood, regulates the functioning of the kidney and reduces blood cholesterol levels. It plays a key role in the prevention of colon cancer, regulation of body temperatures and also in some of the metabolic activities of the body.

Magnesium serves as a balancing nutrient to calcium, by aiding the process of calcium absorption. It plays an important role in over 300 enzymatic systems, in the human body, that are responsible for the production of energy. It is essential for the metabolism of calcium and vitamins, regulation of the various activities related to the heart and the prevention of calcium depletion and calcification of the tissues.

The deficiency of calcium and magnesium can lead to osteoporosis, kidney stones, rickets, menstrual and pre-menstrual problems, weakening of the muscles and bones and various other disorders.

Calcium and Magnesium Supplement
Calcium and magnesium supplement is highly beneficial for those who cannot consume calcium and magnesium rich foods, due to hypertension or avoidance of milk products, lactose intolerance, etc. These nutritional supplements combine calcium and magnesium in a ratio of 2:1, which enables quick and easy absorption by the body. Calcium and magnesium supplement also contains trace minerals like zinc, copper, vitamin C, vitamin D and boron, some ultra-trace elements like alfalfa, dulse and plus kelp and phytovitamins. Around 1000mg of calcium and around 43 to 266mg of magnesium is required by the human body on a daily basis. Calcium can be obtained by consuming calcium supplements, that does not contain any magnesium. The advantage of consuming calcium magnesium supplement is that magnesium promotes the quick absorption of calcium by the body.

The forms of calcium used in calcium and magnesium supplement are calcium malate, calcium citrate and calcium aspartate, which are highly absorbable forms of calcium. These are obtained from various sources, two of them being corals and oyster shells. However, supplements that contain calcium obtained from natural foods, are preferred over coral calcium and oyster shell calcium. Vitamin D, added as a trace element aids the process of calcium absorption.

Calcium and magnesium supplement is available commercially under different brand names, in the form of tablets and liquids. It should be taken along with food or after meals, as consuming it empty stomach can cause certain complications like nausea, headache, allergic reactions or vomiting. It can be taken by those suffering from bone and muscle pain, insomnia, heart diseases, hyperglycemia and cholesterol levels and even during pregnancy. It is important to consume these supplements under medical supervision, to avoid any major complications. Regular intake of calcium and magnesium supplement will ensure protection of bones and help maintain quality of life.

By Dhanya Joy
Published: 8/1/2009
Use the feedback form below to submit your comments.
Your Comments:
Your Name:
Use the form below to email this article to your friends.
Recipient Email Address:
 Separate multiple email addresses by ;
Your Name:
Your Email Address: