5 Calcium Rich Foods Kids Love

Introduction 

Kids have unique nutritional needs that must be met for optimal growth and development. One crucial nutrient that plays a vital role in their development is calcium. Calcium is not only essential for building strong bones and teeth, but it also helps regulate muscle and nerve function. However, getting enough calcium in their diets can be a challenge, especially for picky eaters. 

Fortunately, there are plenty of calcium rich foods for childrens to enjoy. In this article, we will explore five delicious and nutritious calcium-rich foods that your little ones will love. We will also discuss the benefits of calcium and how much your baby needs to support their growth and development. So, let us dive in and help your baby get the calcium they need for strong and healthy bones and teeth!

Benefits of Calcium Rich foods for babies 

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, an infant requires around 200 to 260 mg, and a toddler requires 700 mg of calcium every day for proper growth. It has been observed that kids who were given substantial amounts of calcium in their early years exhibited better growth on the child height chart. Here are the potential benefits of calcium for kids.

• Aids in the proper functioning of the nervous system
• Supports a healthy heart
• Reduces the risk of developing osteoporosis later on

5 Calcium Rich Foods Kids Love

Here are 5 calcium rich foods that even the pickiest eaters cannot resist. 

• Milk

Milk is an excellent source of calcium, with one cup providing about 300 mg of calcium. The ingredient is a good source of vitamin D, the nutrient that helps the body absorb calcium.

• Yogurt

Yogurt is another dairy product that is high in calcium. One serving of yogurt can provide up to 300 mg of calcium. To avoid added sugars, opt for plain or low-sugar varieties of yogurts.

• Cheese

Cheese is a delicious source of calcium. One ounce of cheddar cheese provides about 200 mg of calcium. However, cheese is also high in saturated fat, so it should be consumed in moderation.

• Broccoli

Broccoli is a non-dairy source of calcium, with one cup of cooked broccoli providing about 60 mg of calcium. It’s also rich in vitamin C, which helps the body absorb calcium.

• Tofu

Tofu is a plant-based source of calcium, with half a cup providing about 250 mg of calcium. It is also a good source of protein, making it a healthy addition to meals.

Conclusion

Incorporating calcium-rich foods into your child’s diet is not a super tough task. Whether it is dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese, or non-dairy options like broccoli and tofu, there are plenty of delicious and nutritious options for kids to enjoy. Apart from the 5 mentioned above, one can also prepare meals with leafy greens, such as kale, spinach, and collard greens, or fortified foods like bread, breakfast cereals, and orange juice. So, go ahead and experiment with these tasty options in your kid’s meals, and watch them grow strong and healthy!