Calcium for Teens

           According to government regulations, kids ages 9 to 18 need 1,300 mg of calcium each day. Unfortunately, early 9 out of 10 teenage girls and 7 out of 10 teenage boys fail to get enough calcium in their diets. Here are some tips to help make sure that teens get the calcium they need for strong bones and healthy bodies.

-         A skimmed shake – make an “old fashioned” shake with fat-free milk and your favorite flavor of low fat ice cream

-         Fondue, friends and fun – have friends over for a cheese fondue party – dip favorite veggies, bread and fruit into the cheesy fondue

-         Chocolate craze – Have a glass of ice-cold, low fat chocolate milk to cool you down, satisfy  your chocolate craving and  get you on your way to meeting your daily calcium needs

-         Tropical temptation – Make a smoothie with low fat milk or fat free yogurt and frozen pineapple chuck and mix in a blender

-         Yogurt, fruit and whole grain to go – Mix your fruit of choice, whole grain cereal and low fat yogurt in a plastic cup and eat on the go

-         String cheese – String cheese is a fun, portable, quick and nutritious snack. 

-         Pizza pick me up – For a quick nutrient boost have a slice of veggie pizza topped with low fat cheese

-         Fruit smoothie – Mix low fat milk, frozen fruit and a little yogurt in a blender for breakfast to fit teen’s busy schedules.