Calcium Debunked
We all know that calcium is good for us: it helps keep our bones healthy and strong. But what is calcium anyway? What foods contain calcium? We’ve got a bone to pick with this important nutrient!
Let’s look into some popular myths about calcium.
Myth 1: Calcium is only useful for bone health
When we think of calcium, the first thing we might associate it with are bones. The truth is, calcium is an incredibly important mineral for the entire body. In fact, most of the calcium in our body is stored in our bones and helps to provide many important functions that keep our bones strong, solid and healthy.
Did you know that calcium is also important for the nervous system? It helps muscles, neurons, and the heart to function properly. Calcium also plays a role in blood clotting (an important function in homeostasis).
Being the most abundant mineral in the body, it isn’t surprising to know that calcium also has many other functions that helps to keep us healthy!
Myth 2: There are only animal sources of calcium
Dairy products like milk, yogurt and cheese are commonly known rich sources of calcium. However, you can also find calcium in canned salmon and sardines with bones.
For those following a vegan or vegetarian diet, it is important to note that calcium can also be found in plant-based foods. For instance, some types of tofu are made with calcium and foods such as fortified soy beverages and fortified orange juice provide interesting amounts of calcium. Other foods, such as some greens and legumes, can also contain trace amounts of calcium.
Myth 3 : You don’t need to eat calcium-rich foods if you take multivitamins or supplements
Multivitamins and calcium supplements can be a great way to add calcium into your diet. However, multivitamins and certain supplements do not always provide the recommended daily amount of calcium.
Seeing that calcium is more easily absorbed from food than it is from supplements, it can be beneficial to continue eating calcium-rich foods when you are taking supplements.
We’re all bone to be strong.
In sum, getting enough calcium can help avoid us from having fragile bones, muscle weakness and pain — in other words, reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis that naturally occurs as we age!
It is also important to note that calcium needs differ for different age groups such as older adults who may benefit from a diet rich in calcium. If you have concerns regarding your calcium intake, a registered dietitian can help you meet your personal needs.
How do YOU ensure you eat calcium every day?
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