Categories: Nutrition And Food

7 Best Calcium Rich Food for Diabetics

3.9
(7)

Did you know to keep our bones healthy, we require a calcium element? Calcium plays a vital role in keeping our bones and teeth healthier. In addition, their proper functioning requires 1300mg of calcium per day as the recommended intake value. Moreover, bones are the rigid organs that protect the body and help produce red blood and white blood cells. In addition, it helps store the essential minerals so that the body can utilise them for proper body functioning.

Studies have shown that an increased intake of dietary calcium may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. Also, it is proven that an increase in calcium intake can improve pancreatic β‐cell functions and insulin sensitivity. So, adopting a calcium-rich diet can lessen bone-related risks and contribute to overall health and wellness. In this article, let’s explore the best calcium-rich foods for diabetics.

Also read: Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits: Unveiling The Weight Loss Magic

Why is Calcium Good For Diabetics?

Calcium-rich foods need to be absorbed in the body equally as they are available. But did you know calcium is also good for diabetics? You may have heard about diabetes and the risks associated with it, but did you know that diabetes can also contribute to the development of bone, heart, and kidney disorders?

Modifying your diet is essential to fulfil the nutritional requirements of your body and manage your weight in a healthy manner. That means fueling up with foods like lean protein, whole grains, non-starchy veggies, and certain fruits in your type 2 diabetes diet. Among the foods that control diabetes, another essential element in the diabetes diet, which often gets ignored, is Calcium or Vitamin D-rich foods.

A calcium and vitamin D-rich diabetic diet helps in the better metabolism of glucose. Since diabetes involves insulin resistance, which prevents glucose from entering your cells, leading to excessive amounts in the bloodstream, it is important for glucose to be metabolized. Calcium and vitamin D deficiency have been suspected as having a major role in developing both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

Calcium, along with vitamin D, is the sole essential ingredient in a diet for people with diabetes to develop strong bones. This is especially important for people with diabetes, as their bones lose the mineral faster.

Also read: Sweet Relief | Is Jackfruit Good For Diabetes?

List of Calcium-Rich Foods

Food ItemServing SizeCalcium Content
Spinach1 cup cooked268 mg
Kale1 cup cooked268 mg
Collard Greens1 cup cooked268 mg
Broccoli1 cup cooked47 mg
Almonds1 ounce (about 23 nuts)80
Chia Seeds100 gm456
Sesame Seeds1 tablespoon88
Tofu (Calcium-set)1/2 cup434
Yogurt (plain, low-fat)1 cup415
Cheese (part-skim mozzarella)1.5 ounces19% of the DV
Salmon (canned with bones)3 ounces19% of the DV
Sardines (canned with bones)1 can (3.75 oz)27% of the DV
Milk (non-fat)1 cup327 mg

The following calcium-rich foods lists that are proven to keep you healthy.

  • Sardine fish supports cardiovascular health, and its protein assists with insulin sensitivity. With 324 mg of calcium per 3-ounce serving, this fish provides an excellent source of calcium. As a bonus, the vitamin D in sardines may help the body use calcium more efficiently.
  • Plain Greek yoghurt is another rich source of calcium and vitamin D, which also helps in weight management.
  • Tofu is an excellent low-fat, calcium-rich source of protein. With 434 mg of calcium per ½ cup, tofu provides 43%  of the recommended daily allowance.
  • Spinach is rich in iron and has a high content of calcium, which is readily absorbed by the body.
  • Cottage cheese is another calcium-rich, low-carb afternoon snack.
  • Cod liver oil is another rich source of calcium.
  • Seeds like almonds and sesame seeds are proven to be rich in calcium and vitamin D.

Also read: Exploring The Health Benefits Of Pistachio

Daily Recommended Calcium for Diabetics

The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for calcium for women and men between the ages of 19 and 51 is 1,000 milligrams (mg) per day. This recommendation increases to 1,200 mg for women aged 51 and older and men aged 71 and older. Children aged 4 to 18 will require 1300mg per day.

Age GroupRDA for Calcium (mg/day)
Children (4-18 years)1,300 mg
Adults (19-50 years)1,000 mg
Women (51+ years)1,200 mg
Men (71+ years)1,200 mg

Also read: Unlocking the Potential: Is Beaten Rice Good for Diabetes?

In the End

To sum up, individuals with diabetes can incorporate calcium-rich food into their diet to meet their nutritional needs while managing their condition effectively. From leafy vegetables to dairy products, there are plenty of options available. In order to maintain optimal health, it’s critical to remember the recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) for calcium based on age and gender and to modify intake as needed. People with diabetes can maintain stable blood sugar levels and support bone health by getting enough calcium in their diet by varying their meal choices and being mindful of portion limits. As always, to customize dietary recommendations to specific needs and tastes, speaking with a medical expert or certified dietitian is advised.

Disclaimer: The content of this article is compiled information from generic and public sources. It is in no way a substitute, suggestion, or advice for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. BeatoApp does not claim responsibility for this information .

Dr. Navneet Agarwal is an established and highly skilled Diabetology with over 25 years of experience in Diabetology & Obesity. He is well-regarded for his quality and patient-centered diabetes care. Also, keep track of your blood sugar levels with a Doctors’ approved smart glucometer and elevate your healthcare routine.

How useful was this post?

Anuja Koul

A passionate, creative writer and researcher. I found that writing allowed me to express myself in ways that I couldn't have otherwise. I have tried my hands on different writing genres, but I ultimately discovered that healthcare and wellness are my areas of expertise.

View Comments