Diets rich in leafy greens, lean proteins, and fresh fruits and vegetables positively impact your overall health and well-being. Not only will your waistline slim down, but your brain and body will benefit from the nutrient-rich foods you are swapping sugars and starches for. But let’s not forget about the value of calcium. This essential mineral can do wonders for strengthening your teeth, so keep reading to learn why it should be a pivotal part of your daily diet.
What Makes Calcium Important For Your Smile?
Calcium-rich foods and beverages can improve bone health and reduce your risk of osteoporosis. It is believed that your teeth and bones are composed of 99% calcium, which allows for greater strength and durability.
However, if you lack sufficient calcium in your diet, it can take a toll on your tooth enamel. When you don’t consume enough, your teeth can become more brittle and prone to breakage. They can also be at risk of dental decay, gum disease, and tooth loss.
If your body is not healthy enough to replenish lost calcium on its own, you can face a series of oral health problems that can be timely and costly to address over time.
How Much Calcium Should You Consume Each Day?
To ensure you are getting enough calcium in your diet, you will need to consume a certain amount based on your age and sex. For example, a baby less than 6 months old needs only 200 milligrams a day, while children and teenagers between 9 and 18 years of age need 1,300 milligrams per day.
Adults tend to need between 1,000 and 1,200 milligrams, but the exact amount depends on your age and whether you are a man or a woman.
Which Calcium-Rich Foods and Beverages Are Good to Consume?
If you are looking to add more calcium-based foods to your diet, here are some to consider:
- Milk
- Yogurt
- Cheese
- Salmon
- Sardines
- Broccoli
- Bok choi
- Dark leafy greens (kale, spinach, collard greens)
- Almonds
- White, navy, and soy beans
- Tofu
- Poppy, sesame, chia, and celery seeds
When evaluating your dinner plate, make sure you include calcium-rich foods to give your smile what it needs to stay strong for a lifetime.
About the Author
Dr. James K. Kramer has 30+ years of experience as a dentist in Selbyville, DE. As a Master in the Academy of General Dentistry, an honor achieved by fewer than 5% of dentists in the U.S., he and his son, Paul, work together to uphold the highest standards in delivering superior care to their patients. With a wide range of services available, he emphasizes the importance of preventive treatment and healthy lifestyle habits, such as a calcium-rich diet. If you want to learn how you can strengthen your teeth over time, visit our website or call (302) 436–5133 to schedule an appointment.