Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the human body, with about 99% of it stored to maintain healthy bones and teeth. Many people obsess over getting enough calcium for healthy and strong bones, but it is also required for many other physiologic processes such as healthy muscle contractions, signaling neurological pathways, and facilitating numerous enzymatic reactions.

Like everything in the body, calcium levels are tightly regulated. This is where vitamins D and K come into play. Vitamin D levels regulate calcium absorption and excretion in the gut and kidneys while Vitamin K is responsible for ensuring calcium is properly utilized and stored throughout the body.

When it comes to maintaining strong and healthy bones, calcium is important, but so are all other vitamins and minerals. However, physical activity, specifically weight-bearing exercises, is most important for your skeletal health!

In this episode, we unpack the nutritional science and dismantle the obsession with calcium consumption that so many have been programmed to have.

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Some highlights from today's MM episode...

• Calcium does not come from dairy/animal products, but from the earth, absorbed by all plants alongside other minerals/nutrients
• The calcium requirement in the US is 1,000 mg (1,200 mg for females over age 50) compared to 500-700 mg for most other countries!
• Excess calcium can cause calcification of arteries and kidney/gallstone formation
• Vitamin D regulates calcium absorption and balance in the body
• Vitamin K ensures calcium is stored in bone/teeth and not arteries, kidneys, gall bladder, etc
• Calcium is most abundant in dark green leafy veggies (which also have tons of Vit K), but also legumes and intact whole grains 
• Calcium supplementation can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke
• For bone health, weight-bearing exercises and muscle engagement trigger new healthy bone growth

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Peace and Love.

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