Calcium is one of the most abundant minerals in the human body and accounts for approximately 1.5% of total body weight. Calcium is best known for its role in maintaining the strength and density of bones and more than 99% of our bodies calcium is in our bones and teeth. A calcium-deficient diet is dangerous and one of the leading causes of osteoporosis, a disease characterized by brittle and porous bones that now affects more than 20 million individuals in the United States. Dairy foods are very good sources of calcium because of their lower nutrient density – the Food Guide Pyramid recommends 2-3 servings of dairy products per day. Spinach, turnip greens, mustard greens, and collard greens are also excellent sources of calcium.
