Why Calcium is Essential for Childhood Growth

Your mom gave you a lot of wise advice when you were growing up, but one bit of wisdom holds especially true: Drink your milk!
Milk is a good source of calcium and an important nutrient that helps with bone density. Nearly 100 percent of the body’s calcium reserves are stored in bones and teeth, which must continually replace calcium that is lost through the growth of skin, nails, and hair.
A good supply of calcium is especially important for growing children. Because bones are actively growing during childhood, the amount of calcium needed increases as the size and thickness of bones increase. Bones also absorb calcium more effectively during childhood than any other stage in life, so it’s important for kids to consume extra calcium to keep their bones strong and healthy into adulthood.
How much calcium is enough? The National Institute of Health recommends the following:
• Infants up to age 6 months: 2/3 serving a day (210 mg total)
• Infants from ages 6 months to 1 year: 1 serving a day (270 mg total)
• Children ages 1 to 3 years: 2 servings a day (500 mg total)
• Children ages 4 to 8 years: 3 servings a day (800 mg total)
• Children ages 9 to 18 years: 4 servings a day (1,300 mg total)
For reference, one cup (8 oz) of milk contains 300 milligrams (mg) of calcium. In addition to dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, other good sources of calcium include leafy green vegetables, salmon, and soybeans.
So, drink up (or eat up) – and encourage your kids to get their fill of calcium-rich foods and drinks too. They’ll thank you later!
Comments
Related stories
-
Stains, Stains, Go Away
With dinners, cocktail hours, company celebrations and family gatherings on the calendar this time of year, there … Read More
-
Go Pack Go and Help us Sack Plaque!
As proud fans of the green and gold, we are happy to give you an extra … Read More
-
Say Cheese – Your Teeth Will Love You For It
Today is National Cheese Lover’s Day! Did you know that there are more than 1,000 types of … Read More
Sign Up Now
Tweets
Poll

Most Liked
- 1 Do Expiration Dates on Dental Products Matter? 279 Likes
- 2 Is Activated Charcoal Safe for your Smile? 153 Likes
- 3 Crazy and Cool Fish Teeth Facts 66 Likes
- 4 Recipe: Quick Pumpkin Pudding 47 Likes
- 5 Bad Taste After Brushing? Common Explanations 32 Likes
- 6 Own Your Oral Health: Subscribe now for tips to ensure a bright smile 28 Likes
- 7 Colds and Oral Health 26 Likes
- 8 Why Do Cavities Hurt? 20 Likes
- 9 Safely Using Colored Contacts 16 Likes
- 10 Why You Might Think Twice Before Eating Too Much Ice Cream 15 Likes
Most Commented