Calcium
Calcium exists in greater quantities than any other mineral in the human body. 99% of bodily calcium is located in the bones and teeth, where it provides structural stability and strength. Additionally, calcium plays a role in various cellular processes, including energy production, blood clotting, signal transmission between nerve cells and the excitation of muscles and nerves.
According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA):
Calcium
- contributes to normal muscle function
- plays a role in the division and specialisation of cells
- is needed for the maintenance of bones
- is needed for the maintenance of teeth
- contributes to reducing the decline of bone density in postmenopausal women (osteoporosis)
- is needed for normal growth and bone development in children
Phosphorus
Phosphorus is an essential mineral and is the second most abundant mineral in the human body after calcium. Approximately 85% of the body's phosphorus is stored in the bones and teeth, where it plays a significant role in their structure and strength. Additionally, phosphorus is a central component of many important molecules (such as DNA and RNA), is essential for energy transfer in cells (as a component of ATP) and plays a role in the function of cell membranes.
According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA):
Phosphorus
- contributes to the maintenance of normal teeth
- contributes to the maintenance of normal bones
- contributes to the normal function of cell membranes
