Are You Getting Enough Calcium?

As you know, most of our calcium is stored in our bones and our teeth. Not only is calcium critical for a strong skeletal system, it is also necessary for nerve conduction, muscle contraction, blood clotting and enzyme secretion.

All of which are pretty important things.

Research has shown that calcium deficiency can result in osteoporosis, high blood pressure, autoimmunity, insomnia and low sex hormones.  

For most of us the best way to get adequate amounts of calcium is our food intake.  Most adults need about 1000mg/day, pregnant and lactating women and seniors should consume 1200 mg/day.

Here are some great food sources for calcium:

• Sardines (bone in)

• Canned salmon (bone in)

• Dairy products

• Dark green leafy vegetables

• Sesame seeds

• Blackstrap Molasses

For strong bones you also want to make sure you are getting adequate amounts of magnesium, vitamin D, vitamin K, collagen and zinc.  And don’t forget about weight bearing exercise!