From the Guidelines
Yes, orange juice contains calcium, with a medium-sized orange providing approximately 75 mg of calcium, as indicated in the most recent and highest quality study 1.
Calcium Content in Orange Juice
The calcium content in orange juice can vary, but according to the study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine 1, a medium-sized orange contains about 75 mg of calcium. This amount represents a small percentage of the recommended daily intake for adults.
Fortification and Absorption
While the natural calcium content in orange juice is relatively low, many commercial orange juices are fortified with additional calcium, which can significantly increase the calcium content. The presence of vitamin C in orange juice enhances calcium absorption, making it a potentially good source of calcium for individuals who do not consume dairy products.
Comparison with Other Calcium Sources
As shown in Table 2 of the study 1, orange juice contains less calcium compared to dairy products, such as milk and yogurt, but more than some other fruits and vegetables. For example, a 200 mL serving of whole or skimmed cow's milk contains about 240 mg of calcium, while a medium-sized orange contains about 75 mg.
Practical Recommendations
If you are looking to increase your calcium intake through orange juice, it is essential to check the nutrition label to confirm whether the product is calcium-fortified. Additionally, considering other dietary sources of calcium, such as dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified plant-based milk, can help ensure you meet your daily calcium needs.
From the Research
Calcium Content in Orange Juice
- Orange juice can be a source of calcium, but it is often fortified with calcium and vitamin D to increase its nutritional value 2.
- The study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that orange juice consumption was associated with higher intakes of bone-related micronutrients, including calcium, and improved bone health parameters in the U.S. population 2.
- However, the study published in Nutricion hospitalaria does not specifically mention orange juice as a source of calcium, but rather highlights the importance of calcium in the diet and its abundance in milk and milk derivatives, as well as green leafy vegetables, fruits, and legumes 3.
Bioavailability of Calcium in Orange Juice
- The bioavailability of calcium in orange juice is not explicitly discussed in the provided studies, but the study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food suggests that fortified orange juice can be an effective dietary means of improving calcium status and promoting bone health 2.
- The study published in Advances in Nutrition discusses the regulation of calcium metabolism, but does not specifically address the bioavailability of calcium in orange juice 4.
Comparison with Other Calcium Sources
- The study published in Nutrients highlights the importance of calcium-rich mineral waters as a source of calcium, but does not compare their bioavailability to that of orange juice 5.
- The study published in Osteoporosis International provides a global overview of dietary calcium intake, but does not specifically discuss the contribution of orange juice to calcium intake 6.