calcium foods vs. supplements: which is best for bones?
It seems that the milk bottle beats the pill bottle.
A recent preliminary study by researchers at the Washington University School of Medicine found that postmenopausal women who met at least 70% of their calcium needs through natural food sources and fortified foods had a higher bone density than those who relied mainly on calcium supplements.
Researchers also found that the calcium-from-food group had higher levels of active estrogen metabolites, which may help improve bone density.
Bottom line: Even if you take calcium supplements, include calcium-rich foods in your diet, such as low-fat dairy products and calcium-fortified beverages such as soy milk and OJ.