The Importance of Calcium
Nutrition Diva has the scoop on alternative (and tasty) sources of this important nutrient.
Monica Reinagel, MS, LD/N, CNS
Calcium is important for strong bones, but you don’t have to get it from dairy products. Leafy green vegetables like kale, Swiss chard, and collards are also excellent sources of highly absorbable calcium. In fact, a cup of cooked collard greens contains about 25% more calcium than a cup of milk!
Spinach is a special case: Although it contains a lot of calcium, spinach also has compounds called oxalates, which make it harder for your body to absorb calcium.
Image courtesy of Shutterstock
About the Author
Monica Reinagel is a board-certified licensed nutritionist, author, and the creator of one of iTunes’ most highly ranked health and fitness podcasts. Her advice is regularly featured on the TODAY show, Dr. Oz, NPR, and in the nation’s leading newspapers, magazines, and websites. Do you have a nutrition question? Call the Nutrition Diva listener line at 443-961-6206. Your question could be featured on the show.