Dairy is an excellent source of calcium

Calcium is a vital mineral that plays a crucial role in numerous bodily functions, and dairy is one of the most effective ways to ensure you get enough of it.

Let's take a look at why calcium is so important and how dairy can help you meet your needs.

Bone Health: Calcium is essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. Regular consumption of dairy products can help prevent osteoporosis, a condition that leads to weak and brittle bones, especially in older adults. For children and adolescents, adequate calcium intake is crucial for proper bone development and growth.

Muscle Function: Calcium is necessary for muscle contraction. It helps muscles contract and relax properly, which is vital for all types of physical activity. Whether you're walking, running, or lifting weights, calcium supports your muscles in performing these actions effectively.

Nerve Transmission: Calcium plays a key role in transmitting nerve impulses. It ensures that nerves communicate effectively, sending and receiving signals throughout the body. This is essential for coordinating movements and responding to stimuli.

Blood Clotting: Calcium is involved in the blood clotting process. It helps form blood clots, which are crucial for stopping bleeding when injuries occur. Without sufficient calcium, the body would struggle to manage wounds and prevent excessive blood loss.

Heart Health: Calcium helps maintain a regular heartbeat. It supports the proper functioning of the heart muscles, ensuring that the heart pumps blood efficiently throughout the body. This is vital for overall cardiovascular health.

Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are rich in calcium. For example, a single cup of milk provides about 300 milligrams of calcium, which is roughly 30% of the recommended daily intake for adults. The calcium in dairy is highly bioavailable, meaning it is easily absorbed and used by the body.

In summary, dairy products are an excellent source of calcium, supporting bone health, muscle function, nerve transmission, blood clotting, and heart health. Including dairy in your diet can help ensure you’re getting enough calcium to maintain these vital functions.

Sources:

• Dairy Australia. (n.d.). Health benefits of dairy. Retrieved from https://www.dairyaustralia.com.au/health/benefits-of-dairy

• National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC). (2013). Australian Dietary Guidelines. Retrieved from https://www.nhmrc.gov.au/health-advice/public-health/nutrition

• University of Queensland. (2019). Explainer: how do our bones get calcium and why do they need it? Retrieved from https://www.uq.edu.au/news/article/2019/05/explainer-how-do-our-bones-get-calcium-and-why-do-they-need-it