Which food would the nurse recommend to increase the patient's calcium level?

According to the National Institutes of Health, calcium is the most abundant mineral in the human body, with 99% of it stored in the bones and teeth. Therefore, healthcare professionals, including nurses, frequently advise patients on specific dietary choices to boost their intake of this essential mineral for improved health outcomes.

Quick Summary

A nurse would recommend various calcium-rich foods like milk, yogurt, and cheese, alongside fortified cereals and plant-based alternatives, to help increase a patient's calcium levels. Non-dairy sources include specific leafy greens, canned fish with bones, and certain nuts and seeds.

Key Points

• Dairy is a primary source: Milk, yogurt, and cheese offer high calcium and excellent absorption.

• Fortified alternatives are essential: Plant-based milks, cereals, and juices can provide comparable calcium levels for those with dietary restrictions.

• Not all greens are equal: Kale, collard greens, and bok choy are effective sources, while spinach has poor calcium absorption due to oxalates.

• Vitamin D is crucial for absorption: Patients should ensure adequate intake of vitamin D from sources like fortified foods or safe sun exposure.

• Canned fish offers a dual benefit: Sardines and salmon with edible bones are rich in both calcium and vitamin D.

• Lifestyle impacts bone health: In addition to diet, a nurse will also recommend weight-bearing exercise to support bone density.

• Supplements may be necessary: If diet is not enough, a healthcare provider might recommend calcium supplements, taken in appropriate divided doses.

A nurse plays a critical role in educating patients about nutrition, especially when a patient's calcium levels are low. Calcium is fundamental for maintaining strong bones, muscle function, and proper nerve signaling. The nurse's dietary recommendations prioritize sources that are both high in calcium and easily absorbed by the body.

Dairy Products: The Gold Standard for Calcium

Dairy foods are well-known for their high calcium content and excellent bioavailability, meaning the body can absorb and use the mineral efficiently.

• Milk: A classic and readily available source, often fortified with vitamin D, which is essential for calcium absorption.
• Yogurt: Particularly Greek yogurt, which is packed with calcium and probiotics that can further aid nutrient absorption.
• Cheese: Hard cheeses like cheddar or parmesan and soft cheeses like ricotta or cottage cheese provide significant amounts of calcium.

Non-Dairy and Plant-Based Alternatives

For patients with lactose intolerance, dairy allergies, or those following a vegan diet, nurses provide comprehensive lists of non-dairy calcium sources. These options often rely on fortification or naturally high plant sources.

• Fortified Plant-Based Milks: Soy, almond, and oat milks are commonly fortified with calcium and vitamin D to match the nutrient profile of dairy milk. It is crucial to check the label for fortification and shake the container well, as calcium can settle at the bottom.
• Leafy Greens: Certain dark leafy greens are excellent sources. Kale, collard greens, and bok choy contain highly absorbable calcium. However, spinach, despite having calcium, contains oxalates that inhibit its absorption, making it a less effective source for increasing levels.
• Canned Fish: Sardines and canned salmon with soft, edible bones provide substantial amounts of both calcium and vitamin D.
• Tofu: Tofu made with calcium sulfate is a rich and versatile calcium source, often containing more calcium than a serving of milk.
• Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, chia seeds, and sesame seeds (including tahini) are good sources.
• Fortified Cereals and Juices: Many breakfast cereals and orange juices are fortified to help meet daily calcium requirements.

Factors Affecting Calcium Absorption

Beyond food choice, a nurse educates patients on other factors influencing calcium absorption. Vitamin D is vital as it enhances the body's ability to absorb calcium from the intestines. Sunlight exposure and fortified foods are excellent ways to obtain vitamin D. Conversely, high-salt diets, excessive caffeine, and very high fiber intake can reduce calcium levels. The nurse will also advise on avoiding these factors where possible.

Comparing Calcium Sources: Dairy vs. Non-Dairy

Feature	Dairy Milk	Fortified Soy Milk	Cooked Kale	Canned Sardines (with bones)
Serving Size	1 cup (8 oz)	1 cup (8 oz)	1 cup (cooked)	3 oz
Calcium Content	~300 mg	~300 mg	~179 mg	~325 mg
Bioavailability	Excellent, very high	Good, but affected by phytates	Good, low in oxalates	Excellent, highly absorbable
Vitamin D	Often fortified	Often fortified	Very low to none	Naturally present
Primary Nutrient	Calcium, Protein	Calcium, Protein (comparable to milk), Fiber	Calcium, Vitamins A, C, K	Calcium, Vitamin D, Omega-3s

Developing a Patient Dietary Plan

A nurse's recommendations will be tailored to the individual patient's needs and preferences. For instance, a patient with osteoporosis may need more concentrated sources of calcium, while a patient with lactose intolerance will be directed toward fortified alternatives and low-oxalate greens. The plan is not just about a single food item but a balanced diet incorporating a variety of sources to ensure adequate intake and absorption. A registered dietitian consultation is often recommended for complex dietary needs.

The Role of Lifestyle and Supplements

Beyond diet, nurses emphasize a holistic approach. Regular, weight-bearing exercise helps build and maintain bone density. For some patients, dietary changes alone are insufficient. In such cases, a doctor or nurse may recommend calcium supplements. It's crucial to take supplements correctly, often in divided doses of no more than 500 mg at a time for optimal absorption.

Conclusion

A patient seeking to increase their calcium level has a wide array of options beyond traditional dairy. The nurse will recommend high-calcium foods like milk, cheese, and yogurt, but also highlight effective alternatives such as calcium-fortified plant-based milks and cereals, canned salmon or sardines with bones, and certain leafy green vegetables like kale. By considering factors like absorption, lifestyle, and individual dietary needs, the nurse provides a comprehensive plan for improving a patient's bone health and overall well-being. For more detailed information, consult authoritative sources on nutrition and bone health, such as the National Osteoporosis Foundation.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before making any dietary changes or starting supplements.

References

Better Health Channel. "Calcium." Accessed October 22, 2025. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/calcium LevelUpRN. "Electrolytes - Calcium, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Sodium." Accessed October 22, 2025. https://leveluprn.com/blogs/nutrition-essentials/nutrition-5-electrolytes-calcium-magnesium-phosphorus-potassium-sodium Healthline. "Calcium-Rich Foods That Improve Your Bones." Accessed October 22, 2025. https://www.healthline.com/health/calcium-rich-foods Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation. "Calcium/Vitamin D Requirements, Recommended Foods...." Accessed October 22, 2025. https://www.bonehealthandosteoporosis.org/patients/treatment/calciumvitamin-d/ Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. "Calcium - The Nutrition Source." Accessed October 22, 2025. https://nutritionsource.hsph.harvard.edu/calcium/ Mayo Clinic. "Calcium and calcium supplements: Achieving the right balance." Accessed October 22, 2025. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/calcium-supplements/art-20047097 News-Medical.net. "Calcium-Rich Foods for Bone and Teeth Health." Accessed October 22, 2025. https://www.news-medical.net/health/Calcium-Rich-Foods-for-Bone-and-Teeth-Health.aspx WebMD. "Calcium and Vitamin D: Top Foods to Prevent Osteoporosis." Accessed October 22, 2025. https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/calcium-vitamin-d-foods Health.com. "6 Types of Foods High In Calcium for Stronger Bones." Accessed October 22, 2025. https://www.health.com/foods-high-in-calcium-11812401 Martha Stewart Facebook Page. "These foods have more more calcium than a glass of milk..." Accessed October 22, 2025. https://www.facebook.com/marthastewart/posts/these-foods-have-more-more-calcium-than-a-glass-of-milk-we-asked-nutrition-exper/1364408138374428/ Mayo Clinic News Network. "Mayo Clinic Q and A: Comparing dairy milk and plant-based beverages." Accessed October 22, 2025. https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-comparing-dairy-milk-and-plant-based-beverages/

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best food to increase calcium levels quickly?

Dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese are generally the best food sources for increasing calcium levels quickly due to their high concentration and bioavailability.

Are fortified foods as good as dairy for calcium?

Yes, for many people, fortified foods like plant-based milks and cereals provide a reliable source of calcium, especially for those who cannot consume dairy. It is important to check the nutrition labels to ensure adequate fortification.

Why isn't spinach a good source of calcium for absorption?

While spinach contains a high amount of calcium, it also contains oxalates, a compound that binds to calcium and significantly reduces its absorption by the body. This makes other leafy greens like kale a better choice for increasing calcium.

What is the role of Vitamin D in calcium absorption?

Vitamin D is essential for the body to absorb calcium from the intestines. Without sufficient Vitamin D, the body cannot effectively use the calcium obtained from food, even with a high-calcium diet.

Can I increase my calcium levels with supplements instead of food?

While supplements are an option, most healthcare providers prefer that patients first increase their calcium intake through food. Supplements are often recommended only if dietary changes are insufficient. It is crucial to consult a doctor before starting any supplement regimen.

How can a patient with lactose intolerance increase their calcium intake?

A patient with lactose intolerance can increase their calcium intake through non-dairy sources such as fortified plant-based milks, calcium-set tofu, certain leafy greens like kale and bok choy, and canned fish with bones.

Do canned fish like sardines really help with calcium?

Yes, canned sardines and salmon with their soft, edible bones are excellent sources of calcium. These fish also provide the added benefit of vitamin D, which aids in calcium absorption.