Best Sources Of Calcium For Kids
Calcium is the foundation of having healthy bones. And when it comes to the growing bodies of our little ones, we as parents want to make sure their diet reflects having strong bones that will carry them through life. This is why knowing the best sources of calcium for kids are and just how to incorporate it into their diets each day.
Not enough calcium in a diet puts a child more at risk for fractures and breaks, as well as rickets which is results in bow legs and muscle pain.
How Much Is Enough?
According to the National Institutes of Health, babies newborn to six months need 200 mg of calcium each day. Babies from 7-months to a year-old 260 mg, whereas 1-3-year-olds need 700 mg.
Kids 4-8 need 1,000 mg of calcium and those 9-18 need 1,300 mg.
How To Get It
The best sources of calcium come from dairy products including milk, yogurt, and cheese.
However, calcium-fortified orange juice is a great option for those who don’t consume dairy.
Calcium-fortified soymilk is another option, as well as tofu (must contain calcium sulfate).
Vegetables that contain calcium include turnips, kale, bok choi, and broccoli.
When To Supplement
Milk is the best source of calcium for kids. However, babies under 1-years-old should consume either breast milk or formula and not whole cow’s milk to get the nutrients they need.
Those kids who don’t consume milk or dairy products because of allergy, intolerance, or personal dietary lifestyle reasons should instead look for calcium-fortified foods such as juice and breakfast cereals.
It’s might also be wise to consult with a physician to add a calcium supplement like Gummy Cuties’ Calcium and Calcium DX for adults.
Those with lactose intolerance are at risk of not having enough calcium, as well as vegetarians.
What’s great about Gummy Cuties’ Calcium supplement for kids is that it also has vitamin D for further strengthening bones and teeth. This supplement is nut-, dairy- and gluten-free, so ideal for those with allergies.