Calcium also aids in the production of neurotransmitters, helping transmit nerve impulses. Calcium intake less than 800 mg a day has negative effects, mainly bone loss, the main cause of osteoporosis. A daily intake of calcium, greater than 1,600 mg, has some negative effects; namely nausea and constipation. (Garzon-2748).
The RDI of magnesium is 420 mg for men and 320 mg for women. (RDA-136) Magnesium effects the functioning of the cell membrane and mitochondria, strengthening them and making their processing faster. It is required for the synthesis and stability of nuclear (in the nucleus) DNA. Magnesium protects the heart from the probability of heart attack and disease. Magnesium intake less than 50 mg below RDI is dangerous to your health, threatening it on the cellular level. Magnesium intake 50 mg above RDI is not recommended because it can lead to an imbalance in hormones. (Garzon-2748).
The RDI for sodium is 2,400 mg for both men and women. (RDA-137) It is required for glycolisis (changing sugar into energy). It is also required for the transmission of nervous impulses. Since perspiration releases sodium from the body, it is important for active people to maintain their RDI. Sodium intake less than 1,900 mg can make people nauseous and cause dizziness. Sodium intake greater than the RDI is the main cause of hypertension (high blood pressure). Sodium intake above 2,900 mg or above for a prolonged period of time can lead to ulcers, heart attack, and many other diseases linked with hypertension. (Hunter-9).
The RDI for chloride for both men and women is 750 mg. (RDA-139) Chlorine is required for smooth blood flow, making up 70 percent of the electron flow between blood vessels. Since salt is sodium chloride (NaCl), chlorine is needed for the transmission of nervous impulses for the same reason it is needed for blood flow. While sodium, and salt, is a cause of hypertension, chlorine alone does not have a great impact upon the probability of hypertension.
