What it does
Provides structure for bones and teeth and supports muscle and nerve signaling.
Possible deficiency symptoms
Long-term low intake can affect bones without obvious symptoms. Low blood calcium has multiple causes and is not equivalent to low dietary intake.
Food sources
Milk; yogurt; calcium-set tofu; fortified plant drinks; canned fish with edible bones; kale.
Supplement forms
Calcium carbonate and calcium citrate.
Before taking a supplement
Review kidney-stone history and medication timing. More calcium is not always better.
Questions for your visit
Could my diet, medicines, absorption or another condition explain my concern? What evidence would support treatment, and how would we check whether it helps?
Names you may see
Calcium
Sources & perspective
This is an editorial adaptation of the Purser Wellness nutrient reference app. Purser teaching connections are labeled separately from clinical interpretation. Private cases and individual treatment protocols are not reproduced.
Use the public resources below for additional context.
NIH Office of Dietary Supplements: Calcium
