I am a 17-year-old female who never drinks milk. I DEFINITELY know that I don't get enough calcium, and I'm worried about my health and bones when I get older. How important is it for me to intake the suggested amount of calcium for my age? Also, how can I get this amount into my diet? Is it safe or a good idea for me to take calcium supplements at my age?
2006-06-27 09:50:29 · 7 answers · asked by holly_wood 1 in Health ➔ Women's Health
Calcium is very important for your bones, and muscles. Especially because you are a female! Women are more prone to get osteoporosis from lack of calcium (among other reasons). Other places you could get it from ice cream, cheese, or yogurt. Have you tried flavoring milk? Other less obvious foods high in calcium are broccoli, cabbage, salmon, or sardines. Also many foods and beverages are fortified with calcium and vitamin d such as juices, breads, and cereals. I don't think it would hurt to take a calcium supplement, but you should ask a doctor.
2006-06-27 10:11:23 · answer #1 · answered by nocitygirl21 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is definitely important that you eat a good amount of calcium, especially at your age. Calcium is not only important for bones, but deals largely with nerve impulse conduction and contraction of the heart muscle as well. There are many sources of calcium available to you such as the obvious dairy products. Red meats, vegetables, and some fruit juices are also good sources of calcium. If all else fails and you cannot receive the amount of calcium through these means, then make sure you take a well-rounded daily vitamin. It should provide you with what you need. EAT SOME CHOCOLATE!
2006-06-27 16:56:15 · answer #2 · answered by laffy1999 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You shouldn't take calcium supplements at your age, unless your doctors says it's ok. Today's foods are enriched with a lot of vitamins and minerals. If you're concerned about not getting enough calcium from milk, you should try drinking orange juice fortified with calcium, and or a multivitamin.
You can also get calcium from other sources of food such as yogurt, cheese, and other milk products.
2006-06-27 16:58:45 · answer #3 · answered by Fox 34 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Calcium is important for strong bones and teeth, and teens definitely need it because you're still building up to your peak bone mass. If you don't like milk, you can try yogurt, cheese, or other dairy products. There are also several fortified products such as orange juice that you can try (just look on the food labels - it'll tell you if there's calcium). Calcium supplements are useful, and they are generally safe unless you have kidney problems or completely overload your system.
2006-06-27 16:56:26 · answer #4 · answered by LvsBtxPtr 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Really important for all women--at young ages, for the health of their teeth and bones. They need to be preparing (while young) for their older years.
Can you drink chocolate milk? Milk in hot chocolate? Cereal with milk? Yogurt? Any type of cheese? Macaroni and cheese? Pudding? -- enough of these will give you some calcium.
I'm sure that if you get a female multi-vit - it will contain enough calcium for each day. If not, call your doc, and see how many mgs. is safe to take at your age.
2006-06-27 16:56:49 · answer #5 · answered by Terri C. 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Calcium suppliments are great. they can keep you from getting osteoporosis later in life. It is a good idea to take some kind of vitamin with calcium. One a day for women is a good vitamin. My doctor suggested it to me.
2006-06-27 16:54:54 · answer #6 · answered by rebecca 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think they would be ok..but first look at things you do eat..do you like yogurt or cheeses? they have calcium. You are wise to be concerned about getting older.
2006-06-27 16:52:22 · answer #7 · answered by hatingmsn 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋