Calcium

Is one of the most important minerals required by the body to enhance and optimize bone growth. 

Is one of the most crucial nutrients for promoting and optimizing bone growth. 

Calcium is very important for stronger and longer bones that help in height increase. 

Its main job is to build strong bones and teeth, which contain 99% of the body's calcium. Calcium also helps our muscles move and helps regulate blood pressure, among other vital functions. 

We only get one chance to build strong bones — when we're kids and teens. Children who get enough calcium start their adult lives with the strongest bones possible. 

HOW MUCH CALCIUM DOES YOUR CHILD NEED? 

Did you know that most young people in the United States don't get enough calcium in their diets? 

Calcium is measured in milligrams (mg). We need different amounts at different stages of life. 

Kids need more calcium as they get older to support their growing bones.  

The body's need for calcium is at its highest point between the ages of 9 years and 18 years old. 

An ideal calcium intake helps to build up an adequate peak bone mass, important for strong bones in childhood and adolescence and a minimized loss of bone mass during adulthood. 

Not getting enough calcium during childhood can affect bone strength later in life. 

Some statistics: 

• About 60 percent of children ages 3 to 5 get the recommended dietary intake for calcium. 
• About 40 percent of children ages 6 to 11 get the recommended dietary intake for calcium. 

• Only 10 percent of girls and fewer than 30 percent of boys ages 12 to 19 get the recommended dietary intake for calcium. 

Kids 4 to 8 years old need 1,000 mg of calcium a day (2–3 servings). Kids and teens 9 to 18 years old need 1,300 mg of calcium a day (4 servings). 

SIGNS OF DEFICIENCY… 

If somebody doesn't get enough calcium, their bones will weaken. This is because the body will take calcium out of the bones to use elsewhere if needed. 

 Calcium deficiency leads to an increased risk of sustaining osteoporosis, a disease in which the density and quality of bones are reduced. Osteoporosis is a disease that can make bones so fragile that they break from the stress of just bending over.