According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), there is a relationship between the amount of calcium children receive when young and the tendency toward adolescent bone fractures and the development of osteoporosis in later life. Most children can benefit from general guidelines, though a small minority may require special diets because of genetic differences or childhood diseases.
Delivery
Calcium requires a level of vitamin D for proper delivery of the mineral through the body. Weight-bearing exercise also is an important variable in bone development.
Minimums
Although no absolute minimum levels have been reported, there is research available that points to the development of rickets in children who have not received enough calcium in their diets.
Breast Milk
Studies reported by the AAFP concluded that breast milk is the best source of calcium for the first year of life. No other supplements were needed for maximum results. Breast milk proved superior to formulas and other sources of nourishment.
Children
Children from the ages of 1 to 9 should receive approximately 800 mg of calcium per day to achieve maximum bone density growth. It's during this time of life that good eating habits are formed, negating the need for calcium supplements.
Preadolescents
Up to the age of 18, it is important for teens and preteens to take in 1,200 to 1,500 mg of calcium per day, since it is during this time that the majority of bone formation occurs.
Sources
The best sources of calcium for children are low-fat milk products and calcium-fortified products such as orange juice.
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