Calcium is a mineral that plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of healthy bones and teeth. It is, therefore, important for children to consume enough calcium as they grow.

The recommended daily calcium intake for children varies depending on their age. In this article, we will discuss the recommended daily calcium intake for children by age.

Newborns (0 to 6 months)

During the first six months of life, breast milk or formula provides all the necessary nutrients, including calcium, that a baby needs.

According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, breast milk contains about 5-7 milligrams of calcium per ounce, while formula contains about 8-12 milligrams of calcium per ounce. Therefore, a newborn who is exclusively breastfed or formula-fed should consume between 100 and 200 milligrams of calcium per day.

Infants (7 to 12 months)

As babies grow and start to consume solid foods, they require more calcium to support their developing bones and teeth. The recommended daily calcium intake for infants between seven and 12 months is 260 milligrams.

This amount can be obtained through a combination of breast milk or formula, and calcium-rich foods such as cheese, yogurt, tofu, and fortified cereals.

Toddlers (1 to 3 years)

Toddlers require even more calcium as they become more active and their bones continue to grow. The recommended daily calcium intake for toddlers between one and three years is 700 milligrams. Calcium-rich foods are essential for meeting this requirement.

Some good sources of calcium for toddlers include milk, cheese, yogurt, tofu, and leafy green vegetables. However, it is important to note that milk should not be given to children under one year of age, and that dairy products should be consumed in moderation as they can be high in saturated fat.

Preschoolers (4 to 5 years)

Preschoolers continue to require adequate calcium to support their growing bones. The recommended daily calcium intake for children between four and five years is 1,000 milligrams.

At this age, children can start consuming milk and other dairy products in larger quantities, but it is still important to ensure a balanced diet that includes calcium-rich foods from a variety of sources.

Elementary School Children (6 to 8 years)

As children enter elementary school, their calcium requirement increases. The recommended daily calcium intake for children between six and eight years is 1,300 milligrams.

At this age, children can consume more milk and dairy products to meet their calcium needs. However, it is important to ensure that they are also getting calcium from non-dairy sources such as leafy green vegetables, tofu, and fortified cereals.

Preteens and Teens (9 to 18 years)

During adolescence, bones continue to grow and strengthen. Therefore, preteens and teens require the most significant amount of calcium compared to other age groups.

The recommended daily calcium intake for children between nine and 18 years is 1,300 milligrams. At this age, children can consume three servings of dairy products per day, along with other calcium-rich foods such as leafy green vegetables, tofu, and fortified cereals.

Conclusion

Calcium is an essential nutrient for children of all ages to support their developing bones and teeth.

The recommended daily calcium intake for children varies by age and can be met through a combination of dairy products and calcium-rich foods from a variety of sources. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian to ensure that your child is meeting their daily calcium needs.