Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body with most of it being found in the teeth and bones. Due to the important role calcium plays in the maintenance of a healthy skeletal system, it is important individuals consume an adequate amount of calcium throughout their life.

Milk: Nature's Most Perfect Food
Calcium can be found in a variety of foods but dairy products are some of the most significant sources available. Milk is referred to as nature’s most perfect food. The dairy product gets this name from its high bioavailability of protein and the healthy combination of carbohydrates and fats it contains.

Studies Suggest Calcium May Aid In Disease Prevention
Not only is calcium important in growth and bone structure but it may also aid in disease prevention. Milk products may protect against the development of hypertension and osteoporosis. It may also be beneficial in weight management.

High Blood pressure-High blood pressure is commonly referred to as hypertension. Hypertension increases the risk of stroke, aneurism, heart failure, and heart attacks. Epidemiological data show that calcium directly lowers blood pressure. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggested that people who drink low fat milk may be at a lower risk of developing hypertension.

Osteoporosis- Osteoporosis is classified by reduction in bone density which may lead to an increased risk in bone fractures. Calcium is used in many physiological functions such as muscle contractions and relaxation, nerve, acid base balance, and teeth formation. If adequate calcium is not supplied, the body will pull calcium out of the bones for these functions. This results in bone demineralization. Consuming a sufficient amount of calcium can keep the body supplied with the mineral so it does not “pull out” calcium from the bodies’ natural storage.

Weight Management-A recent study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that drinking a glass of milk at every meal may aid the body’s ability to burn fat and calories. It is thought that calcium may suppress a certain hormone, which may help increase fat oxidation. Consuming dairy products everyday may also help with weight loss by supporting muscle tissue and promoting fat loss.

Calcium Sources
Calcium recommendations are dependant on age and sex but a good number to aim for is about 1,200 mg of calcium each day. The food guide pyramid suggests that three serving sizes a day is sufficient. This is twenty four ounces of milk in twenty four hours. Some calcium-rich dairy products include milk, yogurt, and some types of cheeses. For example, a serving of low-fat milk (8-ounce glass) contains 300 mg of calcium, and a serving of yogurt (6-ounce container) contains 300 mg of calcium.

A few servings of dairy products each day can provide you with a nutrient dense disease protecting formula. With all these great benefits how could you pass up an ice cold glass of milk?