Another device uses sound waves to measure the fracture potential of bones in the arms and legs. Another reason to perform routine bone density testing is to monitor changes over time. Dietary calcium Adequate calcium intake has been shown to protect the skeleton, to lower blood pressure, to reduce the risk of colon cancer, and even to reduce the formation of kidney stones. Heaney, R.P. There should be a dietary guideline for calcium. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, vol.
Many foods are a good source.
A single serving of dairy products delivers around 250 mg of calcium. This includes an 8 oz. glass of milk, two slices of yellow cheese, or a cup of yogurt. Several cereals are now fortified with calcium, and orange juice can also be purchased with added calcium equal to a serving of milk. In addition, calcium supplements are an excellent way to get added calcium. The average pill will usually state that it contains 500 mg of calcium, but only about 200 mg of this is actually usable calcium.