This will help minimize bone loss in later years and keep osteoporosis in check. The good news is that we know more than ever about the role of calcium in maintaining healthy bones. The bad news is that many of us didn't come close to meeting the old recommendations. We're even further off the mark now. Less than half of all Americans consume enough calcium.
Teens are the worst.
Studies show that 86 percent of teen girls and 65 percent of teen boys do not meet recommended levels. Adult women are not much better. On the average, American women consume 500 to 600 milligrams of calcium daily. This is about half the amount now recommended. Most doctors and nutritionists recommend that people look to food first for their calcium.