Tag: Dairy calcium

While many assume milk is the definitive winner, some surprising contenders offer a more concentrated dose of this vital mineral. The source with the highest calcium content can vary, but more important than just the amount is its bioavailability—how much your body can actually absorb and use.

Did you know that approximately 99% of the body's calcium is stored in the bones and teeth? Understanding what foods increase calcium intake is fundamental for maintaining skeletal integrity and supporting vital functions such as muscle and nerve health.

Milk and dairy products are widely known to contain calcium, but specifically, a large portion of their calcium exists as micellar calcium phosphate. This means that the most reliable dietary sources of naturally occurring calcium phosphate are dairy foods, such as milk, yogurt, and cheese. While dairy is the primary source, other food groups also contribute to the body's intake of this crucial mineral complex, essential for strong bones and teeth.

According to the National Institutes of Health, most adults need 1,000 to 1,200 milligrams of calcium per day, and this essential mineral is not exclusively sourced from animal products. The question of whether calcium is a vegetarian or non vegetarian food depends on its source, as it can be found in a wide variety of both animal and plant-based foods.