Based on bone health evidence what is the RDA for calcium in children 1-3 years of age?

Based on bone health evidence what is the RDA for calcium in children 1-3 years of age?

• A. 700 mg/day
• B. 500 mg/day
• C. 1000 mg/day
• D. 1200 mg/day

Answer: (A)

Calcium is essential for bone mineralization during rapid growth, so the amount kids need is set to support steady bone development without excess. For children aged 1 to 3 years, the recommended daily calcium intake is 700 mg. This level reflects calcium balance and bone mineralization data from studies used to establish dietary reference intakes for young children. It provides enough calcium to support peak bone mass accrual as their skeleton grows, while higher intakes do not show additional bone benefits in this age group and could crowd out other nutrients. A intake of 500 mg/day would be too low to support proper bone development, and 1000 mg/day or 1200 mg/day are amounts more appropriate for older children or different populations. Therefore, 700 mg/day best fits bone health evidence for preschool-aged children.

Calcium is essential for bone mineralization during rapid growth, so the amount kids need is set to support steady bone development without excess. For children aged 1 to 3 years, the recommended daily calcium intake is 700 mg. This level reflects calcium balance and bone mineralization data from studies used to establish dietary reference intakes for young children. It provides enough calcium to support peak bone mass accrual as their skeleton grows, while higher intakes do not show additional bone benefits in this age group and could crowd out other nutrients. A intake of 500 mg/day would be too low to support proper bone development, and 1000 mg/day or 1200 mg/day are amounts more appropriate for older children or different populations. Therefore, 700 mg/day best fits bone health evidence for preschool-aged children.