Between running, jumping and climbing trees, our children always seem to be on the go. So, it would come as no surprise that strong bones play an important role in keeping your little one active and agile as they experience new adventures every day.
Nearly 40% of peak bone mass is gained during puberty, with bone mass increasing seven times in the space between birth and adolescence.
You may be wondering what you can do to help support their healthy bone growth and development. That’s where calcium comes into play. An essential mineral, calcium is an important nutrient in maintaining your little one’s strong bones and teeth.
Read on to learn more about how the importance of calcium for kids and discover tips for how you may help support their intake.
The Importance of Calcium For Kids
As a child, your own parents likely encouraged you to drink a glass of milk, citing its role in helping you to grow up “big and strong”. But, did you know this is far from an old wives tale?
In fact, the calcium in a glass of milk helps to support healthy growth and development in a number of ways. Calcium may help to support:
- Bone health and strength
- Maintaining healthy nervous and neuromuscular system function
- Assisting the development of healthy teeth
Dietary Sources Of Calcium
Perhaps the best-known source of calcium is dairy products. Milk, cheese and yoghurt all contain calcium helping to support your child’s strong bones.
But, if your child is experiencing food sensitivities or a fussy phase, you may be pleased to know that there are an array of dairy-free sources of calcium. These include:
- Leafy, green vegetables including broccoli, bok choy and spinach
- Soy and tofu
- Fish like sardines and salmon (with bones)
- Some nuts and seeds such as Brazil nuts and almonds
To learn more about alternative dairy sources, click here.
The information provided in reference to this ingredient is general in nature and provided as information only. Any product specific therapeutic claims for this ingredient are linked to specific dosage requirements based on evidence of traditional or scientific nature.
What's Next?
Have you found this information useful? If so you may enjoy the following:
The Ultimate Guide: Which Vitamins Are Important For Children?
Important Minerals For Your Child (And How To Help Them Get Enough)
