Calcium plays an important role in maintaining healthy teeth and bones, clotting blood and releasing hormones in our bodies. Calcium is also responsible for normal brain and muscle function by sending and receiving nerve signals and maintaining a normal heart beat. Calcium deficiency leads to a number of serious health problems: muscle cramps, depression, memory loss, hair loss, weak nails and tooth decay.

Dairy products, such as low-fat milk, yogurt and cheese are the best sources of calcium, but not the only ones. Lots of green leafy vegetables are also rich in calcium. Broccoli, kale, collard and turnip greens can serve as perfect sources of calcium for vegans. Other products – canned salmon and sardines, dried beans, almonds, sunflower seeds and Blackstrap molasses – are also rich in calcium.