Calcium vs. Magnesium — What's the Difference?

Vital for the blood clotting process.

Acts as a cofactor for numerous enzymes.

Necessary for proper nerve signal transmission.

Important for the creation of proteins.

Plays a crucial role in muscle contraction.

Linked to reducing anxiety and depression.

Important for healthy teeth.

Involved in creating ATP, the body's energy currency.

Essential for developing and maintaining strong bones.

Supports muscle relaxation and nerve function.

Calcium is a chemical element with the symbol Ca and atomic number 20. As an alkaline earth metal, calcium is a reactive metal that forms a dark oxide-nitride layer when exposed to air.

Magnesium is a chemical element with the symbol Mg and atomic number 12. It is a shiny gray solid which bears a close physical resemblance to the other five elements in the second column (group 2, or alkaline earth metals) of the periodic table: all group 2 elements have the same electron configuration in the outer electron shell and a similar crystal structure.

A silvery, moderately hard alkaline-earth metal that constitutes approximately 3.6 percent of the earth's crust and is a basic component of most animals and plants. It occurs naturally in limestone, gypsum, and fluorite, and its compounds are used to make plaster, quicklime, Portland cement, and metallurgic and electronic materials. Atomic number 20; atomic weight 40.08; melting point 842°C; boiling point 1,484°C; specific gravity 1.54; valence 2. See Periodic Table.

A light, silvery-white, moderately hard metallic element that in ribbon or powder form burns with a brilliant white flame. Obtained chiefly from magnesite, dolomite, and bodies of salt water, it is used in structural alloys, pyrotechnics, flash photography, and incendiary bombs. Atomic number 12; atomic weight 24.305; melting point 650°C; boiling point 1,090°C; specific gravity 1.738 (at 20°C); valence 2. See Periodic Table.

The chemical element (Symbol Ca), with an atomic number 20. It is a soft, silvery-white alkaline earth metal which occurs naturally as carbonate in limestone and as silicate in many rocks.

The chemical element (symbol Mg) with an atomic number of 12. It is a light, easily flammable, silvery-white alkaline earth metal.

(countable) An atom of this element.

A light silver-white metallic element of atomic number 12, malleable and ductile, quite permanent in dry air but tarnishing in moist air. It burns, forming (the oxide) magnesia, with the production of a blinding light (the so-called magnesium light) which is used in signaling, in pyrotechny, or in photography where a strong actinic illuminant is required. Its compounds occur abundantly, as in dolomite, talc, meerschaum, etc. Symbol Mg. Atomic weight, 24.305. Specific gravity, 1.75.

An elementary substance; a metal which combined with oxygen forms lime. It is of a pale yellow color, tenacious, and malleable. It is a member of the alkaline earth group of elements. Atomic weight 40. Symbol Ca.

A light silver-white ductile bivalent metallic element; in pure form it burns with brilliant white flame; occurs naturally only in combination (as in magnesite and dolomite and carnallite and spinel and olivine)

A white metallic element that burns with a brilliant light; the fifth most abundant element in the earth's crust; an important component of most plants and animals

Calcium is vital for bone health and muscle function, whereas magnesium supports energy production and enzyme function.

It plays a key role in muscle function, energy production, and protein synthesis.

Yes, with a balanced diet including dairy, leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains.

Magnesium helps regulate calcium levels, promoting balance and preventing adverse effects.

Green leafy vegetables like spinach are rich in both minerals.

Calcium deficiency can lead to osteoporosis; magnesium deficiency might cause muscle cramps and hypertension.

Supplements can lead to overconsumption risks if not taken as advised by a healthcare provider.

Calcium absorption requires vitamin D; magnesium is utilized in over 300 biochemical reactions.

Adults require more calcium (1000-1200 mg) than magnesium (320-420 mg) daily.

Yes, magnesium has been linked to reduced anxiety and improved mood.

Excess calcium can lead to kidney stones; too much magnesium might cause gastrointestinal issues.

Adequate calcium intake is linked to reduced hypertension and cardiovascular disease risk.

Including more dairy, leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains in your diet.

Overdose from food is rare; it's more commonly associated with excessive supplement intake.

It's crucial for muscle contraction and relaxation.