THE IMPORTANCE OF CALCIUM

With the wide range of foods available making healthier choices for your child can be a challenge. Unilever is committed to helping you bring vitality to life with food products that are good for you.

CALCIUM FOR HEALTHY STRONG BONES

Research shows us that South African children do not get enough calcium in their diets. Requirements for children 4 – 8 years old are 800mg/day, and the majority of South African children are only getting just over 300mg/day from the foods they currently eat.

Calcium is essential in the growing years to ensure strong healthy bones as this is when new bones are forming. As we get older bones start to loose calcium and it is harder to replace it.

Vitamin D and protein are also important for bone health. South African children’s protein intake is generally adequate. We used to believe that our bodies made enough Vitamin D through our exposure to sunlight, but with increased use of sun protection and children spending very limited times outdoors, it becomes even more important that children get vitamin D from the food they eat. Good food sources of vitamin D are eggs, sardines, pilchards and margarine.

Enjoyable physical activity should also be encouraged in children as this also helps keep the bone healthy.

SOME FOOD FACTS

Milk and dairy products are the best sources of calcium for your child’s diet (see Table below).

A FUN WAY TO ADD MORE CALCIUM TO YOUR CHILD'S DIET

Many of the snack options for children are high in fat, sugar and salt and contain very little else of nutritional benefit. One Ola Moo frozen treat provides 240mg of calcium and 3.4g of fat. Moo can help to supplement the calcium intake of your child, as Ola Moo provides the equivalent amount of calcium (240mg) as in a glass of milk. Not only is Ola Moo high in calcium but it tastes great and kids love the fun shape and splotches! Getting your kids to eat calcium will never be as easy or as fun!