Calcium: Nature's Tranquilizer?

CALCIUM

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the human body and one of the most important. It works together with magnesium in their functions of the blood, nerves, muscles, and tissues – focusing on regulating the heart and muscle contraction and nerve conduction.[1] The effects calcium has on the body’s functioning can be why it has been called “nature’s tranquilizer” as it can be used to relax nerve and muscle cells. A lack of calcium has shown to make someone more nervous, irritable, and aggressive.[2] Dairy foods have often been considered to be a good source of calcium, and they are. But here are some other, more surprising foods containing high amounts of calcium*

*Nutritional values are per 100g and found on Wikipedia unless otherwise stated.

Sesame Seeds 97%

Tofu 35%

Garlic 18%

Kale 15%

Quinoa 5%

Broccoli & Brussel Sprouts 4%

Oranges 4%

We found a recipe you might like to try:

Marinade:

½ cup orange juice

1 tsp orange zest

1 tbsp maple syrup

1 ½ tbsp apple cider vinegar

2 medium garlic cloves, minced

1 tbsp sesame oil

¼ tsp sea salt

1 lb extra-firm tofu, sliced into ¼ inches

Bowl:

Sliced green onions, for garnish

1 ½ tbsp sesame seeds

1 cup kale, chopped

2 large garlic cloves, minced

1 tbsp olive oil

2 cups cooked quinoa

Procedure:

Preheat over to 400F

In a 9x9 inch baking dish, add orange juice, orange zest, maple syrup, vinegar, garlic, sesame oil, salt and pepper

Add tofu and coat it to marinade. Cover and refrigerate 30-60 min

To bake, cover with foil and bake for 30 min, turning the tofu over halfway

While the tofu is cooking, heat a large pan over medium heat. Add olive oil then minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 min. Add the kale and cook another 2-3 min. Remove from heat and set aside.

In a bowl or plate, add quinoa, then kale, then tofu. Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy!

[1] Haas, E. M., & Levin, B. (2006). Staying healthy with nutrition: the complete guide to diet and nutritional medicine. Berkeley: Celestial Arts.

[2] Holford, P., & Holford, P. (2010). New optimum nutrition for the mind. Australia: Accessible Pub. Systems.