Calcium (Ca) and Magnesium (Mg) are two minerals that are essential to our health and an imbalance or deficiency of any of the two can cause serious problems. Some of these issues related to calcium and magnesium deficiencies are headaches, fibromyalgia, anxiety, depression, tics, psoriasis, acne and eczema, asthma, blood pressure, osteoporosis, diabetes and so on. On the other hand, the correct supplementation and proper intake of these minerals can help in prevention and treatment of these and many other health conditions.
Our body utilizes calcium and magnesium for several hundred chemical reactions that keep the body working properly, including building bone strength, for the proper function of nerves, muscles, and many other parts of the body. In addition to the well known benefits of these minerals for bone health and 
regulation of high blood pressure, there are more, lesser known benefits.
Benefits of Calcium
- It helps regulate body weight
Calcium helps in maintaining optimal body weight, since it is connected to the release of parathyroid hormone which regulates the production of fat. A high-calcium diet results in greater weight loss, and it also hinders weight gain.
- It protects our heart
When we have enough calcium in our bodies, the heart muscles contract and relax properly and there is proper blood pressure in the arteries. However, if the levels of calcium are low, our blood pressure increases and we in danger of developing hypertension (increased blood pressure) which can lead to heart disease.
- It decreases the risk of kidney stones
New studies show that increased intake of calcium actually prevents the development of kidney stones, as opposed to old beliefs that it causes them. We are more at risk of kidney stones if we don’t take enough water during the day.
- It relieves PMS
Premenstrual syndrome symptoms like mood swings, anger, irritability, dizziness and cramps can be relieved with an adequate amount of calcium.
- It keeps out teeth and gums healthy
In addition to keeping our teeth in good condition, calcium keeps out jaw bone strong and makes sure that our teeth fit tight and that there is no place for bacteria to grow. If our teeth show signs of decay
even in our youth, we should consider taking calcium supplements.
Benefits of Magnesium
- It is a laxative
Magnesium neutralizes stomach acid and it helps the contents of our intestines move. It can thus be used to cleanse our bodies of all toxins and relieve constipation.
- It prevents and relives headaches
Studies show that magnesium taken orally or intravenously is a simple and effective solution to migraines and headaches and it can also be used for prevention.
- It helps with asthma and respiratory allergies
Magnesium relaxes smooth bronchial muscles and relives acute asthma symptoms as well as allergic reaction to respiratory allergens. It has so far been used only in show term treatment, but the results are promising.
- It treats skin conditions
Magnesium can be used in many forms, and since skin is our largest organ, we can actually absorb magnesium via our skin as well. Some people use it in the form of magnesium oil and magnesium milk to treat boils, ulcers and wounds, and for skin brushing in order to remove dead skin cells and improve circulation. It can successfully deal with oily skin, dandruff and infections caused by step bacteria. Epsom salt baths are used to regenerate the skin and relax the muscles.
- It helps with mood and attention disorders
Serotonin, which regulates and improves our mood, is dependent on Magnesium, which means that having enough of Magnesium in our body promises a relaxed nervous system and minimizes the dangers of stress, anxiety and depression. It also alleviates the symptoms of attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
We can increase the intake of calcium and magnesium via foods rich in them, and also add supplements. In any case, we should first consult with out doctor since we need to get the right calcium – magnesium ratio for the best results.
