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Non-Dairy Calcium:
Vegan-Friendly Ways
to Build Healthy Bones

Written by Christina Newberry
Reviewed by Gloria Tsang, RD
Published in October 2010

(HealthCastle.com) Calcium is an important part of a healthy diet. Not only does it help create and maintain strong teeth and bones, it also has a role in muscle contraction, blood clotting, and nerve function, and helps prevent osteoporosis and hypertension. Most of us get the majority of our calcium from milk and other dairy sources, like yogurt and cheese. For those who choose not to consume dairy products, what are the options for maintaining an appropriate intake of calcium?

How Much Calcium Do We Need?

From ages 19 to 50, both men and women should get 1,000 mg of calcium per day. After age 50, we all need 1,200 mg per day. For reference, one cup of non-fat milk contains about 300 mg of calcium.

Non-Dairy Calcium Sources

Dark green vegetables like broccoli, arugula, and spinach

At about 180-240 mg calcium per cup, these vegetables provide a solid calcium foundation for a dairy-free day. Try using any of of these vegetables in a stir-fry or salad, or mixing them together for an extra calcium kick.
Soybeans, tofu, and soy milk

Soybeans are naturally a good source of calcium, but check for soy milk that's fortified with calcium and tofu that's processed with calcium sulfate if you're consuming these products to meet your calcium needs. Tofu works especially well in Asian cooking, while soybeans can be used in place of peas in many dishes. Use soy milk as you would use cow's milk - you may drink it as is, or add to breakfast cereal.
Nuts and seeds

Almonds offer 75 mg of calcium per ounce, while sesame seeds offer a whopping 280 mg per ounce (though since they're so light, you'd need to eat a lot to consume a full ounce). Sprinkle nuts or seeds on top of a salad, or simply munch some almonds as a calcium-rich mid-afternoon snack.
Lentils and beans

Ranging from about 38 mg up to well over 100 mg per cup, lentils and different types of beans can add a hearty dose of calcium to chilies, stews, and Indian dishes like curries and dahl.

If you're looking for non-dairy calcium options, but you're not vegan, you can also get a healthy dose of calcium from canned fish with the bones in.

The Bottom Line

If you're not consuming dairy products, you need to find alternate sources of calcium. The good news is that by adding a few servings of the above non-dairy calcium foods to your daily meal plan, you may be able to get enough calcium to keep your teeth and bones healthy, and get all the other benefits that calcium provides. Also speak to your doctor to find out if you need calcium supplements.