Calcium Sources and Functions

Calcium plays an important role in the maintenance of health. It has been called the prime instigator of vital activity.

• This mineral is essential for the proper development of bones and teeth.
• It is necessary for the normal action of the heart and all muscle activity.
• It aids the clotting process of the blood and stimulates enzymes in the digestive process.
• Calcium is required for proper fetal growth, for normal health of the mother during pregnancy and lactation, and for the secretion of breast milk.
• It speeds all healing processes and controls the conduction mechanism in the nerve tissues so that messages travel fast enough for the functioning of the body.
• It is essential for proper utilization of phosphorus and Vitamin D, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C.

Sources of Calcium

• Milk and milk products are the most important sources of calcium in readily available form. One liter of cow’s milk contains 0.12 per cent of calcium.
• Green vegetables such as cassia, amaranth, turnip greens, cauliflower, carrots, and leaves of colocasia, drumsticks, fenugreek, and radishes are excellent sources of calcium.
• Other good sources are mustard seeds, dried coconut, and almonds.
• Finger millet is the cheapest natural source of calcium.
• Fish too is a rich source of calcium.

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