The month of June is filled with blooming flowers, long sunny days and the freshest of fruit and vegetables. While out browsing this bounty of produce, it’s important to remember to obtain all the recommended nutrients. June has been named National Dairy Month in order to raise awareness of the essential nutrient calcium.

Rachel Wall, graduate student in food science and human nutrution, said the “recommended daily allowance for calcium is 1,000 mg a day for college males, and females 19-50 years of age. Good sources of calcium include low-fat dairy products, which are products made with 2% milk or skim milk.”

Wall cited The National Institutes of Health’s information on the importance of obtaining calcium.

“Calcium is required for vascular contraction and vasodilation, muscle function, nerve transmission, intracellular signaling and hormonal secretion, though less than 1% of total body calcium is needed to support these critical metabolic functions. The remaining 99% of the body’s calcium supply is stored in the bones and teeth, where it supports their structure and function. Bone itself undergoes continuous remodeling, with constant reabsorption and deposition of calcium into new bone,” according to the National Institutes of Health’s Office of Dietary Supplements.

Some students might cringe at the idea of an entire month dedicated to dairy, but those who are not die-hard dairy fans can get the recommended amounts of calcium through other nutrient sources.

“Other good sources of calcium include calcium-fortified orange juice, tofu, salmon and spinach,” said Wall.

It doesn’t matter how students are obtaining the RDA for calcium, but calcium is an important factor for long term health.

“Over the long term, inadequate calcium intake causes osteopenia, which, if untreated, can lead to osteoporosis. The risk of bone fractures also increases, especially in older individuals,” according the Office of Dietary Supplements.

For more information on calcium visit:

http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/calcium/