Yes, our bodies need calcium to maintain health. No, we do not need to drink cow’s milk to reach daily calcium dietary goals. So when research studies say that we’re not drinking enough milk to obtain calcium, think again.
The truth behind the age old myth is that milk is not the best way to obtain calcium. Yogurt has more calcium than milk and is easier to digest because it contains less lactose. Many people cannot easily digest cow’s milk because they are lactose intolerant or sensitive to the protein casein. Collard greens, spinach and other greens have about as much or more calcium than milk by the cup. Greens, unlike milk, also have the added benefit of vitamin K, also necessary for strong bones. Sesame is also very high in calcium.
One final note, cup for cup, milk has the highest calorie count out of all other calcium sources.