What did Calcium do when Magnesium knocked on his door?
Vitamin!
Today we are looking at how calcium and magnesium work together to maintain body health.
What Is Calcium?
Calcium is a major mineral. This mineral is often referenced in conjunction with bone health. But calcium also supports the following body functions:
- Muscle Contraction: supports muscle contractions in healthy adults
- Cardiovascular Health: supports blood flow & supports healthy heart rhythms
- Cell Communication: supports neural transmission contributing to synaptic activity
However, associating calcium with bone health makes sense. Our bones store 99% of the calcium in our body. Calcium directly supports bone density. Therefore, calcium sufficiency is important in bone health.
For the average healthy adult, the recommended daily intake is:
- Adult Males 19 to 71: 1000 milligrams/day
- Adult Males Over 71: 1200 milligrams/day
- Adult Females 19 to 50: 1000 milligrams/day
- Adult Females Over 50: 1200 milligrams/day
What Is Magnesium?
Magnesium is a major mineral. This means it needs to be consumed in greater quantities than trace minerals such as iron and zinc. It functions as a cofactor in enzyme reactions, supporting over three hundred enzyme systems throughout the body. It also functions as a regulatory cofactor in the skeletal, cardiovascular and nervous systems.
For the average healthy adult, the recommended daily intake is:
- Adult Males: 400-420 milligrams/day
- Adult Females: 310-320 milligrams/day
The Calcium Magnesium Ratio
Mineral ratios identify the optimal levels of minerals that closely collaborate in the body. One example is the calcium magnesium ratio. These minerals function like a seesaw within the body. The two minerals fill opposite roles in our skeletomuscular systems. Calcium supports muscle contractions: magnesium supports muscle relaxation. Magnesium supports blood flow: calcium supports blood clotting.
So, what is the calcium magnesium ratio?
2:1
The average human body functions best on a 2:1 calcium-to-magnesium ratio.
Why Is the Calcium Magnesium Ratio Important?
Maintaining a mineral balance helps support optimal body function. The two minerals fulfill opposing roles in the body. Magnesium supports the homeostasis of calcium. Hypercalcemia—toxic levels of calcium in the blood—may occur when magnesium levels are too low.
Quick Facts about Calcium Magnesium Ratio:
- Mineral ratios identify the optimal levels of minerals that closely collaborate in the body.
- Calcium Magnesium Ratio: 2:1 calcium-to-magnesium for the average, healthy adult
- Why Is It Important: magnesium supports calcium absorption & utilization in the body
If you have any questions about your individual mineral levels and needs, please reach out to your healthcare provider!