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While many studies do show an
association between low levels of calcium and high blood
pressure, solid proof that getting more calcium in the
diet can prevent or control high blood pressure has been
elusive. There are many
great reasons to get enough calcium in your diet. This
essential mineral is needed to build and maintain strong
bones and teeth. Adequate dietary calcium is the best
insurance against osteoporosis. If it also helps prevent
or control high blood pressure, so much the better.
A wide variety of foods contain
calcium. But you'd have to eat two cups of
broccoli to get the same amount of calcium contained in
one cup of milk. Keep in mind, though, that a
glass of whole milk has as much saturated fat as three
strips of bacon, and saturated fats increase your chances
of having a heart attack. If you're going to eat
more dairy products, reach for the no-fat versions.
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| Does Milk Protect
bones A vegetarian group claims drinking
milk does not protect
bones from osteoporosis and that fruits and
vegetables are
a better source of calcium.
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Calcium May Slow Weight Gain
Researchers may have found another reason for
women to drink
milk.
In a two-year study that involved 54 women ages
18 to 31,
researchers from Purdue University in West
Lafayette, Ind.,
found that calcium intake from dairy products
appeared to
curb weight gain.
According to the study, women who consumed less
than 1,900
calories a day and had a daily intake of
at least 780
milligrams of calcium showed no increase
in body fat or
lost body fat mass during a two-year period.
Women who ate
less than 1,900 calories every day and averaged
less than
780 milligrams of calcium gained body fat mass
during the
study period, researchers report. |
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