Foods High in Calcium

Calcium, the most abundant mineral in the human body, has several important functions. More than 99% of total body calcium is stored in the bones and teeth where it functions to support their structure. The remaining 1% is found throughout the body in blood, muscle, and the fluid between cells.

Calcium is needed for muscle contraction, blood vessel contraction and expansion, the secretion of hormones and enzymes, and sending messages through the nervous system. A constant level of calcium is maintained in body fluid and tissues so that these vital body processes function efficiently.

All dairy produce — particularly milk, dried milk, yogurt and cheese — is rich in calcium. Other calcium food sources include peanuts, sardines, tinned salmon, herring, kippers, soya, oatmeal, bread, spinach, radish, treacle, dried fruits, cabbage, broccoli and blackcurrant.