• HEALTH

"Calcium, Magnesium, and Vitamin D:
The Buzzwords of Health Functional Foods"
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Calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and vitamin D are essential nutrients for supporting bone health. While traditionally, people might have relied on individual supplements for bone health, a combination of all three—often referred to as Calcium+Mg+Vitamin D, or "CalmaD"—is now the preferred choice. Let’s explore why combining these nutrients is beneficial and how to ensure you're getting them effectively.

99% of Calcium in the Body is in Your Bones

Calcium is the primary mineral that makes up your bones. In fact, 99% of the body's calcium is found in your teeth and bones. This absorbed calcium helps increase bone density and strength. It is absorbed in the small intestine and plays a crucial role in maintaining a constant concentration in the blood. Maintaining adequate blood calcium levels is essential for bone health; high levels help increase bone mass, while low levels can cause calcium to be released from bones into the blood, leading to reduced bone mass. Therefore, it's important to consume enough calcium to keep blood levels stable. However, be cautious not to take in too much calcium, as excess can lead to calcification in the blood vessels.

Magnesium Counteracts the Side Effects of Calcium

"Magnesium plays a crucial role in the body as a cofactor for over 300 enzymes, participating in a wide range of biochemical reactions. It is also an essential component of bones and teeth, working alongside calcium and phosphorus to maintain bone strength. One of magnesium's key functions is to prevent calcium from accumulating in blood vessels, which can lead to health issues. Calcium and magnesium have a complementary relationship—much like rungs on a ladder. If you consume too much calcium, your body may need less magnesium, and vice versa. Therefore, maintaining the right balance between calcium and magnesium can help avoid the negative effects of excessive calcium."

Vitamin D Helps Absorb Minerals

Calcium and magnesium are vital for bone health but are not easily absorbed by the body. This is where vitamin D plays a critical role. Most nutrients are absorbed in the small intestine and transported through the bloodstream to various parts of the body. Vitamin D is essential for ensuring that calcium and magnesium are effectively absorbed in the small intestine.

Diagram of Calcium Absorption in the Small Intestine by Vitamin D
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The Way to Choose CalMaD Wisely
The Optimal Ratio of Calcium to Magnesium: 2:1

Calcium and magnesium are typically found in a 2:1 ratio in the body's tissues, reflecting their complementary relationship. An imbalance—whether excess or deficiency—can lead to health issues. Therefore, when selecting a supplement, it is wise to choose a product that maintains this 2:1 ratio between calcium and magnesium.

Check the Recommended Amounts for Each Nutrient

Excessive intake of calcium, magnesium, or vitamin D can lead to side effects such as calcification, vomiting, and abdominal pain. To avoid these issues, review the recommended intake amounts for each nutrient to ensure you're not exceeding safe levels, particularly if you are taking multiple supplements.

According to the Ministry of Health and Welfare's 2020 Korean Nutrient Intake Guidelines, the recommended daily intake of calcium is 600 mg for infants aged 3 to 5, 900 to 1,000 mg for growing adolescents, and 700 to 800 mg for adult men and women.

Magnesium, while safe when consumed through whole foods, can cause side effects such as diarrhea and vomiting if taken in excess as a supplement. The recommended daily amounts for magnesium are approximately 370 mg for adult men and 280 mg for adult women, with an upper limit of 350 mg for magnesium obtained from supplements, excluding dietary sources.

Vitamin D, which is naturally synthesized by the body through sunlight exposure, may require supplementation if you do not get enough sun. The recommended daily intake for vitamin D is 5 µg for children and 10 µg for adults.

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Confirm Where Your Calcium Comes From

Calcium is found in a variety of natural sources, including milk, algae, fish bones, and coral. Each of these sources has distinct characteristics. Plant-based calcium, such as that from seaweed, is known for its high digestibility, while animal-based calcium often works well in synergy with vitamin D. Most calcium supplements on the market use either calcium citrate or calcium carbonate. Among these, calcium citrate is generally better absorbed. To meet your needs effectively, you can choose the type of calcium that best suits you or opt for supplements that combine different forms of calcium for optimal results.

Hyunjung Yoo Researcher

Current) Food Science Research Center, Kolmar BNH