Calcium is a vital nutrient for strong bones and healthy teeth, but many people believe it can be difficult to get enough if you don’t eat dairy. Fortunately, there are plenty of delicious and nutritious ways to get your daily dose of calcium without having to consume cow’s milk or yogurt. Let’s explore some of the best alternatives.
Almonds and Other Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are an excellent source of calcium and many other vitamins and minerals. Many people think these are unhealthy because they are high in fat, but they are actually packed with healthy fats that can help keep your body fit and energized. Almonds in particular contain almost as much calcium per serving as an 8 ounce glass of milk! They also contain phosphorus, which helps the body absorb more calcium from other sources.
Leafy Greens and other green vegetables
Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and collard greens, as well as other green veggies like broccoli are all excellent sources of calcium! These veggies pack a nutritional punch – not only do they contain substantial amounts of calcium, but they also offer a wealth of vitamins A, C, K, magnesium and iron. To maximize absorption rates, try sautéing them with a little olive oil or adding them to soups or stir-fries.
Beans
Did you know that beans can be a great source of calcium? It's true! There are plenty of foods that contain this crucial nutrient, including beans. Some types of beans that are particularly rich in calcium include navy beans, white beans, and black-eyed peas. So, if you're looking to up your calcium intake in a plant-based way, consider incorporating more beans into your diet. Plus, beans are versatile and delicious, making them an easy addition to any meal.
Grains
Did you know that some grains are a good source of calcium? If you're looking to up your calcium intake, don't overlook grains like amaranth, teff, and quinoa. These superfoods contain higher levels of calcium compared to other common grains like wheat or oats. So next time you're browsing the grocery store aisles for healthy grains, consider adding some of these calcium-rich options to your cart.
Tofu
Tofu is made from soybeans, which means it is full of plant-based protein as well as calcium. It is also low in calories—so if you’re looking for a way to stay trim while getting your daily dose of essential nutrients, tofu could be a great choice for you! For maximum nutrition benefits, look for tofu that has been fortified with additional calcium or check the nutrition label before purchasing. Be sure to get only organic to avoid the pesticide laden alternative and eat sparingly because of the estrogenic effects it has.
Calcium Supplements
If you’re looking for an easy way to get your daily dose of calcium without having to eat any dairy at all, then supplements are definitely worth considering. Not only do they provide a convenient way to get the recommended amount each day (1), but they also come in a variety of forms such as pills and powders which can make it easier to swallow them down. If you decide to go this route just remember that supplements should never replace real food sources.
Getting your daily dose of calcium doesn't have to mean consuming dairy products every day; there are plenty of delicious alternatives available! Almonds and other nuts provide healthy fats along with added calcium; leafy greens like spinach pack a nutritional punch; and tofu contains plant-based protein plus lots of essential vitamins and minerals. No matter what dietary restrictions you may have, there's no excuse not to get enough calcium—just take advantage of the myriad options out there! Holistic moms can rest assured knowing that their families don't need dairy products to get their daily dose of this important mineral.
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