Calcium Ca

Atomic Number: 20
Atomic Weight: 40.078

Human Physiology:

  • 5th most abundant element
  • crucial to heart, nerve, muscle function
  • necessary for bone strength
  • RDA for women is 20 mcg/day; men require less

Sources:

  • Dairy products
  • Green leafy vegetables
  • Salmon, sardines, shellfish
  • Dried beans
  • Almonds, Brazil nuts

Deficiency:

  • Osteoporosis
  • Tetany
  • Spasms
  • Cramps
  • Rickets (children)
  • Slow growth

Excess:

  • Muscle weakness
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