Let's talk about calcium. While calcium is an essential part of a healthy diet to build strong bones and help prevent osteoporosis, it's also important for many other reasons, like the health of our muscles, nervous system, and blood clotting pathways. This mineral might also play a role in heart-health, colon health, and weight loss.

Calcium is an essential mineral that our bodies cannot make, and must be ingested, using food or supplements. Our calcium needs are lifelong, and even when we stop growing, we need calcium to keep our bones strong and dense.

Most adults need to consume about 1000 mg of calcium a day. Mid-life women need up to 1500 mg daily. If we don't consume enough calcium, our bodies take it from our bones, which can contribute to bone thinning over time.

Low and non fat dairy products are the most concentrated source of dietary calcium. These products are also fortified with vitamin d, to maximize absorption into the digestive tract.

Dark green leafy vegetables are another good source of calcium, but you've got to eat a lot more of it. It takes about 4 cups of broccoli to provide the calcium of an 8 ounce glass of milk!

My bottom line? Boost your calcium intake to at least 1000 mg daily with a variety of foods, and a calcium/vitamin d supplement when needed. It's never too late to support good health.