| You are in > Diet & nutrition>Know your food>Minerals>Calcium |
Calcium |
| Calcium is a silvery-white metallic element that is
found in common substances such as chalk, granite, eggshells, seashells, hard water, bone
and limestone. |
|
|
|
| |
| |
|
|
| Food sources |
| Milk is an out standing source of calcium. Green
leafy vegetables are also a good source. Among cereals, Ragi is the richest source
of calcium. Whole grain cereals have more calcium than refined cereals. In the case of
eggs most of the calcium is present in the shell and therefore is lost out. back to top |
| Functions |
| Calcium plays an extremely important role in the
formation of bones and teeth. It is also essential for nerve conduction, muscle
contraction and blood clotting. Calcium helps in absorption of vitamin B12 from the ileum.
It increases permeability thereby helping in absorption process of cell membranes. back to top |
| Recommended
Dietary Allowance (RDA) |
| The RDA for calcium is 0.4 -0.5 gms per day for a
normal healthy adult. During periods of growth, pregnancy and lactation additional
requirements are recommended. back to top |
| Related Articles
|
|
|
