ABSTRACT
The chapter reviews the history of understanding the health significance of Ca and Mg in water over the last 150 years. The main focus is to provide an updated review of the scientific evidence of health effects from either low or high concentrations of Ca and Mg in drinking water and the health and aesthetic benefits to be gained from ‘optimum concentrations’ of both elements. Problems with insufficient regulation of both elements in drinking water are discussed and possible measures to ensure the minimum and optimum Ca and Mg levels in drinking water are recommended.
