Everyone benefits from calcium. Strong bones, healthy teeth and the prevention of osteoporosis are the more well-known benefits, but there’s a lot more to be had from getting enough calcium.

Your circulation system depends a lot on calcium and it’s necessary for blood clotting. It is also involved in stimulating some of the hormones released in the body and helps with enzyme functioning.

Calcium can also help control blood pressure and it’s good for the nerves. It really doesn’t matter what age a person is; there are benefits for them from calcium.

Dairy Foods and Calcium

Hopefully you have enough dairy products in your diet so you’re getting plenty of calcium. Milk provides a great source, and milk products offer good amounts too. Other items providing a substantial amount of calcium include ice cream and of course, cheese and yogurt.

The average person can get all the calcium they need simply by eating dairy foods four times daily. This might sound like a lot, but really it isn’t. For example if you have cereal and milk first thing in the morning, have a yogurt for a midday break and have just two servings of cheese, you’ve met the requirement.

But… Diary Has Some Serious Problems!

Not everyone can get their calcium from dairy products. Due to lifestyle or physical conditions many people avoid dairy products completely. For example, Vegans don’t include any dairy in their diet, and some people just don’t like the taste of dairy products. Others have food allergies to milk or can’t digest it well. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get the proper amount of calcium. There are a number of ways.

Get calcium from fish

Sardines and salmon have lots of calcium and can serve as a substitute unless you are a vegan. Vegans however, have plenty of options for getting calcium such as dark vegetables like peas, Brussels sprouts, collard greens, kale, and broccoli. Also, for Vegans, Tofu, turnips, and sesame are all excellent for calcium.

In addition, there are lots of foods which have been fortified with calcium like bread, orange juice, certain drink mixes and cereals as well. Try soy milk - plenty of brands include calcium.

To Supplement or Not to Supplement?

For people who just don’t get enough calcium in the foods they eat, calcium supplements may be the answer. Also, don’t assume that taking a multi vitamin will give you the calcium you need because many of those don’t contain any calcium.

Unfortunately, many people don’t get enough calcium. Bone loss is the most significant concern, but there are a number of other problems which can develop as well. Why not take a quick look at your diet to determine if you’re getting the amount of calcium needed. If not, be sure to bump up the amount of calcium in your diet and look into the possibility of adding a calcium supplement.