Most people know that calcium is important for bone and tooth development. Ninety-nine per cent of the body's calcium is found in bones and teeth, but few people realize how extremely important the remaining 1% is. Not only bones and teeth suffer if your body's calcium level falls too low, but also many neurological and musculoskeletal problems can develop -- since calcium also plays an important role in the functioning of your nerves. Every one of your billions of cells needs calcium to survive.
Calcium deficiency problems that can develop are poor tooth formation, leg cramps, nose bleeds, attention deficit disorders, bone and joint difficulties or deformities, and overall slow growth.

Millions of people suffer from low calcium levels, especially the aged and adolescents. Many people now eat fewer calcium rich foods, like milk and cheese, and/or are exposed to substances that reduce their body's ability to absorb calcium from food. Included in this group of calcium blockers are drugs like cortisone, aspirin, chemotherapeutic agents, calcium channel blockers and tetracyclines. Calcium deficiency may also be caused by a lack of vitamin D, needed for absorption of calcium.

One in four postmenopausal women will develop osteoporosis (adult bone loss). Low calcium intake in childhood may be a factor.