Behind the Scenes Blog

It's well known that calcium is important for healthy bones (you can see calcium supplement commercials on TV almost anytime). But your body also needs calcium for normal muscle and nerve function and calcium helps your blood clot normally. Calcium also helps keep your body in the right acid-alkaline balance.

Some people don't get enough calcium from the their diet, especially teenage girls. That's unfortunate because a lack of calcium early may mean a greater risk of osteoporosis later on - it's important to get bone-building calcium while teenagers are growing. The best source of calcium are the dairy products milk, cheese and yogurt, or you can also get calcium from dark green vegetables too.

While it's okay to take calcium supplements, it's an even better idea to get calcium from your diet. Low or nonfat milk and cheese are terrific sources of calcium and protein. Yogurt may be even better because it contains friendly bacteria that help to keep your digestive and immune systems working right. Don't like dairy? Choose dark leafy green vegetables, broccoli, sardines and calcium-fortified foods.

Great Ideas for Getting Calcium

• Strawberry Yogurt Parfait
• Low Fat Macaroni and Cheese
• Low Fat Cauliflower and Cheese
• Smoked Sardine Salad