Saturday, February 02, 2008

Calcium

Calcium is an element critical to many body functions, including bone growth and maintenance, muscle and nerve control, blood clotting, teeth, and blood pressure regulation. Bone mass is built until age 29 years or so. After that, you cannot build more bone by increasing your calcium intake, but you can help prevent bone loss by maintaining a good intake of calcium and vitamin D and exercising regularly.

Good Sources of Calcium

  • Milk (low- or non-fat varieties are best if you are watching your fat intake)
  • Yogurt
  • Cheese
  • Green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, kale, broccoli, bok choy, collards and Chinese cabbage
  • Tofu
  • Canned salmon or any fish with bones
  • Calcium-fortified juices

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