
Does milk really build healthy bones?
Milk is a good source of calcium, but don’t forget to eat those vegetables too!
Asked by: Christine Bressat, West Sussex
The body needs a regular intake of calcium for a range of needs, not least building and maintaining bones. If it doesn’t get enough calcium from the diet, it will extract it from bones. Although some disagree on the importance of dairy products, they are undeniably good sources of absorbable calcium.
Healthy bones also require vitamin D and potassium. It’s a good idea to boost calcium levels by eating plenty of leafy vegetables, beans and seeds.
Read more:
Authors
Dr Emma Davies is a science writer and editor with a PhD in food chemistry from the University of Leeds. She writes about all aspects of chemistry, from food and the environment to toxicology and regulatory science.
Sponsored Deals

May Half Price Sale
- Save up to 52% when you subscribe to BBC Science Focus Magazine.
- Risk - free offer! Cancel at any time when you subscribe via Direct Debit.
- FREE UK delivery.
- Stay up to date with the latest developments in the worlds of science and technology.