Let’s discuss great dietary sources of Calcium and the effects on the body if there is a lack of Calcium in the diet.
According to a study from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), more than 75% of Americans are not meeting current dietary recommendations for calcium. In conjunction with Magnesium, it is used for muscle contraction, bone density, tooth integrity, blood clotting, heartbeat, restores proper pH in our bodies by removing acids, and contributes to nerve conduction.
Repeated consumption of high fructose corn syrups and sugars, and processed packaged foods that contain additives, and hydrogenated oils cause the body’s pH level to become acidic. Many degenerative diseases stem from increased acidic levels in the body, including: Osteoporosis, Arthritis, abnormal cell growth and cancers, heart problems, kidney and gall stones, chronic fatigue, cavities, and mood swings.
Calcium can be found a wide variety of food sources, including such vegetables as kale, broccoli, asparagus, parsley, cabbage, and dark green leafy vegetables. Almonds, sardines, flaxseed, oats, blackstrap molasses, figs, and watercress also contain good concentrations of Calcium. Although it is well advertised that dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt, etc.) to be great sources of Calcium, unfortunately most of today’s pasteurization processes (when milk is heated over 160 degrees) kills off its nutrition value. Most nutrients become denatured and are not readily absorbed by the body. In addition, because of its high phosphorus content, milk from animal sources can counteract blood levels of Calcium content. Calcium supplementation is also a good bet, but keep in mind that the body does a much
Weight bearing exercise and physical activities also builds stronger bones in addition to proper diet. Proper spinal alignment allows the bones in the body to articulate much better, reducing Calcium deposits and arthritic change. By being proactive with a whole food diet, avoiding processed foods, weight bearing exercise and working out, proper spinal alignment, and proper sunshine and supplementation, getting your daily intake of Calcium is easier than ever!
