Calcium has become a controversial topic. Do I need calcium or not? Do calcium supplements do more harm than good?
Calcium is Essential
Our bodies do not manufacture calcium, but calcium is essential for many functions.
How Much Calcium is Recommended?
In 2010, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) released new calcium recommendations. Based on recent research that suggested calcium over 2000 milligrams (mg) a day may be harmful in older adults.
Recommended Daily Calcium (2010 IOM)
| Age in years | Daily Calcium mg | Upper Level mg |
|---|---|---|
| Infants 0–1/2 | 200 | 1000 |
| Infants 1/2–1 | 260 | 1500 |
| Children 1–3 | 700 | 2500 |
| Children 4–8 | 1000 | 2500 |
| Children 9–18 | 1300 | 3000 |
| Adults 18–50 | 1000 | 2500 |
| Men 51–70 | 1000 | 2000 |
| Women 51–70 | 1200 | 2000 |
| Adults 71 & over | 1200 | 2000 |