I Don't Drink Cow's Milk. Should I Take A Supplement?
Posted on 11/15/2023 by Weo Admin
Around 70% of all American adults drink or eat dairy on a weekly basis. However, there are many Americans who either don't like cow's milk or who can't eat products made with cow's milk. Both calcium and vitamin D are crucial for tooth health, so if you don't consume dairy, what are your options? Here are some great choices for you if you don't consume dairy made from cows.
Sunlight
You have the ability to get some vitamin D into your system every time you go outside. You may be able to get all of your vitamin D requirements if you spend between ten and 30 minutes per day around the middle of the day, several days a week. Be sure that if you choose to get your vitamin D requirements in the sun, you wear sunscreen. You'll still be able to get plenty of vitamin D.
While you can get your vitamin D needs met in the sunlight, you can't get calcium through the sun's rays. You may want to consider looking for alternative sources of calcium.
Almond Milk
Almonds naturally contain calcium, so almond milk, yogurt, and cheese are good ways to get calcium. You need to check the calcium requirements for each almond product you use. Both almonds and cashews contain calcium and vitamin D, so you may be able to get both of your daily requirements met through non-dairy products.
Fruits and Vegetables
Many fruits and vegetables contain both vitamin D and calcium. Leafy greens have calcium, as does broccoli. Yogurt and cheese have both vitamin D and calcium. You can also get vitamin D and calcium from many kinds of beans and lentils.
If you aren't sure if you are getting all of the calcium and vitamin D you need, it is time to ask the dentist. They will be able to tell you whether your nutrition benefits your teeth and gums.