What is Calcium, the Mighty Mineral?
Calcium, a mineral, helps build strong bones and teeth. It is a chemical element represented by 'Ca' on the periodic table. In its pure form, calcium is a soft, silvery-white metal. It combines with other elements to form compounds, which are all around us.
The Importance of Calcium in Your Body
About 99% of the calcium in the body is stored in bones and teeth. Bones act as a calcium bank. During childhood and teenage years, the body deposits calcium, building a strong foundation. Later in life, the body can withdraw some calcium. A full calcium bank helps prevent bones from becoming weak.
Besides building bones and teeth, calcium helps muscles move, sends messages from the brain through nerves, clots blood, and keeps the heart beating normally. Vitamin D is also needed for proper calcium absorption from foods. Sunlight helps create vitamin D, which is good for calcium intake.
Where Else Can We Find Calcium?
Calcium is the fifth most abundant element in the Earth's crust. It is a major component in many familiar materials and natural formations.
- Limestone, Marble, and Chalk: These rocks are made of calcium carbonate. Ancient Romans used heated limestone to make cement, and chalk is used on a blackboard.
- Seashells and Coral Reefs: Marine creatures use calcium carbonate from seawater to build their shells and skeletons. Over millions of years, these animals build coral reefs.
- Stalactites and Stalagmites: In caves, these formations are created by water dripping slowly. The water dissolves calcium carbonate, and as it drips, the mineral builds up the formations.
Interesting Uses and Surprising Origins
- "In the Limelight": This phrase comes from calcium! In the 1800s, theater stages were lit with bright lights created by burning calcium oxide (lime).
- Cement and Concrete: Calcium compounds are essential for building. When limestone is heated, it creates lime, which is used to make cement.
- Making Plaster: The calcium compound gypsum (calcium sulfate) is used to make plaster. Plaster of Paris is used for casts for broken bones.
Food Sources for Calcium: Dairy vs. Non-Dairy
| Food Source | Dairy Example | Plant-Based Example |
|---|---|---|
| Beverages | Milk, yogurt smoothies | Calcium-fortified orange juice, fortified soy milk |
| Cheeses | Cheddar, mozzarella, cottage cheese | Calcium-fortified tofu |
| Vegetables | - | Kale, broccoli, collard greens |
| Other | Canned salmon (with bones) | Almonds, chickpeas, sesame seeds |
Conclusion: A Small Mineral with a Big Job
Calcium is an important mineral. It is vital for growing strong bones, muscles, nerves, and for building the world around us. So, calcium is hard at work! For more information on health and nutrition, visit the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements' consumer page.
More Fun Facts!
How much calcium is in my body?
Approximately 99% of the body's calcium is in bones and teeth, making it the most abundant metal in the body.
What does "in the limelight" have to do with calcium?
In the 1800s, lime (calcium oxide) was heated to a high temperature, causing it to glow, lighting up theaters. Being "in the limelight" meant being the center of attention.
How does calcium help seashells?
Many marine creatures, like snails, use calcium carbonate from the ocean to build their shells and exoskeletons.
Is calcium only for bones?
No, calcium helps muscles contract, nerves send signals, blood clot properly, and regulate your heartbeat.
Can plants use calcium?
Yes, calcium is an essential nutrient for plant growth, helping to strengthen cell walls. Vegetables, like kale and broccoli, are excellent sources of calcium.
What is a stalagmite?
A stalagmite is an upward-growing formation on a cave floor, formed by water rich in calcium carbonate.
Does vitamin D help with calcium?
Yes! Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium from food. You can get vitamin D from sunlight and some foods.
