Why should we supplement calcium in spring?
As the saying goes, "The year's plan starts in spring." Spring is a period of accelerated growth for children, making it an ideal time to supplement calcium. Children are also more prone to calcium deficiency in spring, so calcium supplementation is even more necessary at this time.
Studies have found that March to May is the peak growth period for children and adolescents, with an average height increase of 1.37 cm, significantly higher than in other seasons. During this period, children often complain of leg pain, especially at night, sometimes waking them up; this is called growing pains. Parents should be alert and consider supplementing their children's calcium intake. Make sure to take advantage of spring, a prime time for calcium supplementation.
Why is it important to supplement calcium in spring? What foods are good for calcium supplementation in spring?
Children's growth rate varies throughout the year, with spring being the peak season for growth. Therefore, spring is the ideal time for calcium supplementation. To help children grow taller, it's crucial to take advantage of this golden season for calcium supplementation. Spring is the best season for children to grow taller, and if parents seize the opportunity during this time to implement a reasonable calcium supplementation plan, the results will be more significant than at other times, especially from March to May each year, when children experience accelerated growth. Therefore, calcium supplementation during this season not only provides calcium but, more importantly, promotes children's growth and development.
What foods are good for calcium intake in spring?
1. Shepherd's purse
Eating spring vegetables is a custom of the Spring Equinox. Digging up shepherd's purse and stir-frying it with eggs can dispel the stagnant energy accumulated during winter and prevent spring fatigue. Shepherd's purse is the top choice for calcium supplementation in spring. It is rich in nutrients, with high levels of vitamin C, carotenoids, and various minerals. Notably, its calcium content is nearly three times that of the same weight of milk.
2. Milk
Half a pound of milk contains 300 milligrams of calcium, as well as various amino acids, lactic acid, minerals, and vitamins, which promote calcium digestion and absorption. Moreover, the calcium in milk is more easily absorbed by the body; therefore, milk should be a primary source of calcium in our daily diet. Other dairy products such as yogurt, cheese, and milk tablets are also good sources of calcium.
3. Mustard greens
Besides being high in calcium, mustard greens are also rich in vitamins A, B, C, and D. Mustard greens can stimulate appetite and digestion, refresh the mind, relieve fatigue, and also have detoxifying and anti-swelling effects.
4. Sea cucumber
Sea cucumbers are rich in calcium and have high nutritional value. They are a typical high-protein, low-fat, and low-cholesterol food.
5. Navel oranges
Citrus fruits are known for their high vitamin C content, but among these fruits, navel oranges have the highest calcium content. Each navel orange contains 60 milligrams of calcium, and five navel oranges are equivalent to a glass of milk.
6. Almonds
28 grams of almonds contain 80 milligrams of calcium, and 100 grams of almonds contain the same amount of calcium as a glass of milk. A small handful of almonds daily can not only lower blood sugar, promote weight loss, and reduce cholesterol, but is also a good source of calcium. However, do not eat too many at once to avoid excessive calorie and fat intake.
7. Soy products
Soybeans are a high-protein food and also contain a lot of calcium. 500 grams of soy milk contains 120 milligrams of calcium, and 150 grams of tofu contains as much as 500 milligrams of calcium. Other soy products are also good sources of calcium.
8. Grapes
Grapes are rich in iron, phosphorus, calcium, organic acids, lecithin, carotene, and vitamins B1 and C. Pregnant women with poor blood color, low blood pressure, poor circulation, and cold hands and feet can benefit from eating more grapes.
9. Animal bones
Animal bones are over 80% calcium, but it's insoluble in water and difficult to absorb. Therefore, when preparing food, you can crush them beforehand, add vinegar, and simmer over low heat. When eating, remove the surface oil and add some green vegetables to make a delicious soup.
