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Calcium
Also called: calcium carbonate, calcium citrate
The main mineral in bones and teeth, also needed for muscles and nerves.
- Why people take it
- Bone health and preventing osteoporosis.
- What the evidence says
- Best taken from food. Supplements help if your diet is low in calcium, for example if you take no dairy, especially for older women.
- Be careful
- More than 2,000 to 2,500 mg a day can cause kidney stones and constipation. Take no more than 500 mg at a time. Take it apart from thyroid medicines, iron and some antibiotics.
- In food
- Milk, curd, paneer, ragi, sesame seeds, leafy greens.
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Common questions
What is Calcium?
The main mineral in bones and teeth, also needed for muscles and nerves.
Why do people take Calcium?
Bone health and preventing osteoporosis.
Does Calcium work?
Best taken from food. Supplements help if your diet is low in calcium, for example if you take no dairy, especially for older women.
Is Calcium safe?
More than 2,000 to 2,500 mg a day can cause kidney stones and constipation. Take no more than 500 mg at a time. Take it apart from thyroid medicines, iron and some antibiotics.
Sources and further reading
Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.
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