The human body has a remarkable way of protecting itself when it needs to. When calcium levels are low, hormones react by telling your body to increase calcium absorption. The intestine increases calcium absorption, the bones release calcium to the blood, and the kidneys slow calcium excretion. Normally, adults absorb 30% of the calcium they consume. Pregnant women absorb 50% of ingested calcium. The RDA for calcium during pregnancy and lactation is 1200 mg.

Dairy products are the best way to get calcium, but not the only way. Calcium can be found in vegetables, nuts, soy products, and in breads. Kale has 47 mg. per 1/2 cup, broccoli has 83 mg. in one fresh spear, cooked spinach has 122 mg. in 1 cup and tofu has 130 mg. in 1/2 cup. Corn tortillas, almonds, sesame seeds and watercress are also high in calcium. Orange juice is another good source of calcium, but make sure it says it's fortified with it! Some breads on the market have also been fortified, so be on the look out for those.

Definitely discuss taking calcium supplements with your doctor or a registered dietitian, in order to find the type of supplement best for you. There are many different types out there and it's very important to educate yourself about them before going to the drug store and picking up any old supplement. Your body will do all it can to make up for deficiencies, but it still needs all the help it can get. Also remember to eat a variety of foods!

I know first hand that having a sensitive stomach can throw you into a boring routine. When you have a sensitive stomach you are never sure what foods will cause problems, so you tend to stick to the ones that don't. On a day when you have nowhere to go, try something new (just in case your stomach isn't very happy with you.) By process of elimination, you will begin to learn what your body will tolerate and what it won't.

Good luck! I wish you all the best.

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