Calcium is needed to develop and maintain healthy bones and teeth, and is an important factor in reducing the rate of age-related bone loss (one of the risk factors for osteoporosis). It is also essential for cellular growth, blood clotting, nerve impulse transmission and muscular function. Calcium can compete with magnesium for absorption, so supplemental magnesium is added. Magnesium, in association with calcium, is important for bone structure and strength, and for keeping calcium soluble (helping to prevent the formation of kidney stones). It is also needed for muscle relaxation and is essential for growth. Vitamin D is needed for calcium absorption, and its functions include growth and maintenance of healthy bones and teeth.
