Health Benefits of a High Calcium Diet

Health Benefits of a High Calcium Diet

Calcium is an important nutrient the human body needs to thrive! Calcium is integral to not only bone health but also the processes of every human cell! It is vital that you consume foods high in calcium on a regular basis in order to avoid potentially life threatening conditions.

Calcium plays a vital role throughout every stage of life. Whether it’s the building blocks of growing bones or the strengthener of aging bones, calcium is something to be mindful of for people of all ages. In addition to bone health, ingesting the proper amount of calcium can prevent obesity by keeping the parathyroid gland working at optimal condition while helping to prevent kidney stones, depression (especially in women), and colon cancer. Calcium aids in the strengthening of cardiac muscle, lowers blood pressure, and combats the negative effects of poor diet choices in regards to the body’s alkalinity.

Like all things, there is a limit to how much calcium you should take as too much of it has been linked to heart disease. Adults should consume around 1000 mg of calcium per day unless under a doctor’s supervision. Children under 18 should consume between 200 mg (for infants) and 1300 mg per day (for teenagers).

Good sources of calcium come from dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, leafy greens such as kale, broccoli, and collard greens, and fish such as salmon, sardines, and oysters. Soy, almonds, and black eyed peas are also excellent sources of calcium.

Depending on your diet or as recommended by your physician, a calcium supplement may be recommended if you have food allergies or your food preferences do not match this list. Keep in mind, however, the body absorbs calcium more efficiently and effectively from food.

Calcium is extremely beneficial to your health and longevity. Aiming to get 1000 mg per day can have lasting positive effects, but like anything else, too much or too little can be harmful.

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