Calcium: How Much Do I Need?

Calcium: How Much Do I Need?

Learn how much calcium you should be getting everyday

The Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) of the Institute of Medicine released updated recommendations for calcium intake in 1997.

Because factors such as genetics, hormones, physical activity and intake of other nutrients, foods and drugs affect your calcium requirements, talk with your doctor or dietitian to determine your personal nutrient needs.

Adequate Intakes for Calcium
Life Stage	Age	Males (mg/day)	Females (mg/day)
Infants	0-6 months	210	210
Infants	7-12 months	270	270
Children	1-3 years	500	500
Children	4-8 years	800	800
Children	9-13 years	1,300	1,300
Adolescents	14-18 years	1,300	1,300
Adults	19-50 years	1,000	1,000
Adults	51 years and older	1,200	1,200
Pregnancy	18 years and younger	-	1,300
Pregnancy	19 years and older	-	1,000
Breastfeeding	18 years and younger	-

Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Calcium. Dietary Reference Intakes: Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Vitamin D, and Fluoride. Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press; 1997:71-145. (National Academy Press)

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