The importance of calcium really can't be overstated. It strengthens our bones and our teeth, can help keep our blood pressure low, keeps our nerves communicating effectively with each other, and is even thought to help prevent cancer. We need calcium, and our bodies don't make it. We have to get it from other sources, and food is a much healthier way to do this than supplements - especially fruits and vegetables.
Calcium might be the most famous mineral on the periodic table, but most people only think about it when someone mentions milk. Milk is an efficient source, offering about 300 milligrams per cup, but it's not the only one. Calcium needs partners, like magnesium, vitamin D, vitamin K, and even fat to be properly absorbed. That's why getting it from different sources of whole foods instead of supplements is a better strategy.
