Calcium

What is calcium?

Updated 4 Nov 2026

Short answer

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body, and 98% of it is stored in the bones.[1] The rest helps muscles, nerves, blood vessels and blood clotting.[1]

Milk, yogurt and cheese are rich sources. Some vegetables, canned fish with bones and fortified foods also provide it.[1] Supplements usually contain calcium carbonate or calcium citrate, and some antacids contain calcium carbonate.[1]

Sources (1)

  1. Calcium: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. ods.od.nih.gov

More about calcium

Which foods contain calcium?Does calcium need vitamin D to work?How much calcium can the body absorb at one time?What is calcium used for?What happens if you do not get enough calcium?Is calcium safe?

For education; not medical advice. Talk to a doctor before you start, stop or change a supplement.