Yesterday I realized I only had a few calcium supplements left. I knew I wouldn’t have time to go to the store during my busy weekend, so I went right down and picked up a new supply. A calcium deficiency can lead to depression, and I don’t want to do anything that might lead me down that path again. Since I don’t do well with dairy products, I need to take calcium pills to compensate.
To help myself remember to take the pills, I buy the chewable kind and put them in a candy jar on the kitchen counter to catch my attention. At mealtime I put one on my plate if the meal contains little or no dairy.
I buy the calcium tablets with a high percentage of magnesium, which helps the body absorb the calcium. Magnesium also has a calming effect, relaxing muscles and reducing anxiety. For this reason I also keep some plain magnesium capsules by my bed in case I can’t sleep at night. I’m careful to only take one or two–in larger doses it can act as a laxative.
Chocolate also contains magnesium. If a woman craves chocolate, it might be her body’s way of telling her she’s low on magnesium. However, chocolate is not a good source since it also contains lots of sugar and fat. I’ve challenged several friends to try taking calcium-magnesium tablets if they want to stop their chocolate obsession. So far this test has worked on everyone, including me.
I still enjoy eating chocolate−preferably dark−even when I don’t crave it. But what I enjoy more is the emotional stability I receive from well balanced nutrition. I’m making a purposeful effort to drink the whole glass of God’s loving provision for my moods by taking in enough calcium and magnesium each day.
The Never Ending Gifts 
Thank you, Kris. I take both calcium and magnesium but I often forget the calcium because I’m not supposed to take it with thyroid replacement medicine. I appreciate your reminder suggestions for taking it a little while later.
By: Sue Tornai on September 15, 2011
at 4:42 pm
Remembering is my downfall, too. But I persevere! Thanks for taking the time to read my latest entry and respond. I appreciate your thoughtfulness and encouragement.
By: Kris Lindsey on September 16, 2011
at 5:25 pm
I was recently informed by my Hematologist to be careful not to take a vitamin if it contains over 100% of the daily requirement. It will cause more damage than good. If you drink milk, eat yogert, etc. only take 50% of what is needed daily in a vitamin. Do take the magnesium as well.
By: Harriet Vincnet on May 9, 2012
at 12:42 am
Harriet, thanks for the helpful advice. Calcium’s recommended daily dosage is 1000 mg, or 1200 mg for those over age 50. I aim for a combination of calcium-rich foods and supplements that add up to this number.
By: Kris Lindsey on May 9, 2012
at 11:55 am