The effect of protein intake on the absorption of calcium and magnesium

Abstract

Metabolism studies were carried out on 5 healthy adults at 2 levels of protein intake. In the main expt. each study lasted 14 days. and the protein intakes were 0.85 and 2.4g./kg. body wt./day. The mineral intakes were equalized at the two levels of protein intake by means of supplements. Raising the protein intake trebled the amts. of Ca and increased the amts. of Mg absorbed from the gut and subsequently excreted in the urine. It is suggested that very little Ca might be absorbed by some individuals, were it not for the protein and amino acids in their diets.