It seems more emphasis is placed on the importance of vitamin supplementation. While there is some information available about minerals, it is not as prevalent as what is published about vitamins. Despite the reports that recommend vitamin and mineral supplementation for people who need them, many people don't consider supplementing their diet with minerals. Since it's difficult to know how much of a particular mineral your body is lacking, many people are afraid they may take too much and become sick. While taking minerals in excess can cause problems, a lack of sufficient minerals in the body can also have an effect on your general health. Calcium is by far one of the most essential minerals in the body. The parts of the body that are most associated with sufficient calcium are healthy teeth and bones. Calcium also plays a vital role in blood clotting and muscle contraction. An individual who has a calcium deficiency has an increased risk of developing osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weak bones that makes the individual prone to breaks. Signs of muscle weakness, such as muscle spasms or cramps or also caused by calcium deficiency. Pregnant and postmenopausal women, young children, and the elderly have the greatest need for calcium. In addition, anyone who does not consume at least 1200 milligrams each day should consider supplementation. Calcium supplementation may be particularly important to individuals who are overweight. Recently, there have been reports that consuming the recommended daily amount of calcium can assist with weight loss. The reports contend that the more calcium that is in the body, the better the body is able to metabolize fat. When there is an insufficient amount of calcium, the body stores more fat. Although the studies are still relatively new, calcium has also been found to lessen the risk of colon cancer and heart disease . If you discuss your health concerns with your medical doctor and it is determined that calcium supplementation is right for you, your doctor will probably recommend that you take vitamin D and K. Vitamins D and K assist with calcium absorption and are also beneficial to healthy bones. It is very important that you do not take more calcium and vitamins D and K than recommended by your doctor. Excessive amounts of any of these can result in serious side effects. Why not check out our nutrition guide at http://www.nutritional-supplement-guides.com/nut-ebook.html and also what supplement we personally use for our nutrition needs at http://www.nutritional-supplement-guides.com/what-we-use.html