Why is kale considered better than other sources for absorbing calcium, especially for those avoiding dairy?
Answer
It has low levels of oxalates
While kale is a good source of plant-based calcium, vital for maintaining bone and tooth strength, its utility in calcium absorption is further enhanced by its relatively low concentration of oxalates. Oxalates are natural compounds present in many plant foods that possess the capacity to bind to minerals like calcium in the digestive tract, thereby hindering or reducing the body's ability to properly absorb and utilize that calcium. Because kale contains low levels of these inhibitory compounds, the calcium it supplies is more bioavailable for bone metabolism compared to greens with higher oxalate content, making it a more effective dairy-free source for bone structure support.
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