Rising Calcium Deficiency in Women
A recent study shows that about 23% of women are not taking sufficient amounts of calcium in their diet. In addition, about 42% of the teenage girls are also neglecting the intake of milk which is an effective source of calcium. The assumption that milk is a fatty food could be making women avoid calcium-based foods.
Dr Cliodhna Foley Nolan says that milk is not a high fat diet and neither a highly fat saturated food. Instead, milk contains essential nutrients like calcium, proteins and water soluble vitamin B recommended for healthy living.
Why is Calcium Essential?
Researchers explain that calcium is beneficial for the human body in a number of ways. For example:
- Calcium restores bone health
- Calcium reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases
- Calcium reduces the risk of colorectal cancer
Other Sources of Calcium
Listed below are some other sources of calcium apart from milk:
- Soft-boned fish
- Vegetables
- Bread and other flour-based foods
- Nuts
- Pulses (both lentils and beans)
Dr Nolan further explains that if women do not wish to drink fat full milk, then low-fat or fat-free milk can be a good alternative for cutting down calories. Experts recommend 3 servings (200ml) of dairy foods for people in general. Otherwise 5 servings are recommended for teenagers, breast-feeding and pregnant mothers.