Answers About Calcium, When Dairy Is Off The Table

Posted August 2, 2019

Calcium. You know that you need it and you know your children need it, too. However, when your lifestyle doesn’t include dairy, you may find yourself wondering if you’re going to be able to provide your child with the nutrition necessary for optimal oral health (and how). Maybe your child is lactose intolerant or has a dairy allergy. Perhaps your family follows a plant-based way of eating! While you may have heard varying opinions about your concern, our Dallas, TX team (and certainly your pediatrician) can happily fill you in on the information you need about the ever-important calcium, when dairy is simply off the table!

Do I Really Need To Worry About Calcium?

Our team reminds you that you most certainly need to ensure your child is receiving enough calcium. Everyone needs enough! While we will be happy to talk with you about the amount your child should receive on a daily basis, we also encourage you to speak with your pediatrician if you have further nutritional concerns!

What If My Child Is Calcium Deficient?

So, what’s the big deal in terms of calcium and oral health? What happens when your child is calcium deficient? While serious deficiency can come with severe side effects, simply not getting an adequate amount of this particular mineral may lead to oral health problems, such as a much greater chance of developing tooth decay, as well as weakening teeth.

Are There Other Natural Sources, Beyond Dairy?

We know that when dairy isn’t an option, you may not feel certain about how to get enough calcium through diet alone. Fortunately, there are lots of natural sources of this mineral! While you’re free to take a comprehensive look at what’s out there, we remind you that many nuts, leafy greens, seeds, citrus fruits, and beans are full of it, making eating for good oral health a breeze!

How About Fortified Foods? Do They Help?

Of course, you may also rely on fortified foods that have been enriched with calcium! From orange juice to soy milk and even your favorite snacks and breakfast cereals, you’ve got a very long list of options that are just as nutritious as they are delicious to your kiddos!

Check In With Nutrition Questions For Our Team

When you have questions about nutrition, a change in your lifestyle or diet at home, or anything else that may have a strong impact on your child’s oral health, remember to bring your thoughts to our attention! Schedule a visit with your Dallas, TX children’s dentist, Dr. Marr at Pediatric Dental Care at Casa Linda by calling 214-321-4880. We proudly welcome patients from Dallas, TX, and all surrounding communities, including Casa Linda and more.