The primary function of calcium in the body is to maintain a healthy bone structure.

Most people, however, find it difficult to meet the UK Recommended Daily Allowance of 700 mg.

Dairy foods, especially milk and cheese, green vegetables (cabbage and broccoli), soya beans, tofu, nuts and sardines are all good sources of calcium.

If you eat a nutritionally well-balanced diet, but still find it hard to meet your calcium requirements, try taking supplements.

To see if you need to take supplements, try making a log of your calcium intake over a few days and see how it compares to the recommendation.

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