Calcium, Total

Routine annual

also —

What it isTotal blood calcium is the sum of free (ionized) calcium and calcium bound to albumin and other proteins. Most body calcium is stored in bone; the small fraction in blood is tightly regulated.

DoesDrives nerve and muscle excitability, blood clotting, and intracellular signaling.

GoodMid-range calcium reflects intact parathyroid and vitamin D physiology and adequate bone mineral homeostasis.

BadHigh calcium suggests hyperparathyroidism, malignancy, or vitamin D toxicity. Low calcium suggests vitamin D deficiency, hypoparathyroidism, or kidney disease.

Standard

8.6–10.3 mg/dL.

Optimal

9.2–9.8 mg/dL (narrow target)

Modifiers

Albumin level affects total calcium (correct for albumin); ionized calcium is the active form.

How to optimize

Lifestyle: Weight-bearing exercise for bone health; sun exposure for vitamin D.
Diet: Whole-food calcium sources — leafy greens, dairy, sardines with bones, almonds; avoid mega-doses of calcium supplements.
Supplements: Vitamin D3 (target 60–80 ng/mL) and vitamin K2 MK-7 (180–360µg/day) to direct calcium to bone; magnesium glycinate.
Peptides: —
Drugs: Treat underlying cause.

within Minerals