Some plant food sources of copper are whole grains, beans, yeast, dark leafy greens, dried fruits, black pepper, almonds, potatoes, cocoa, cashews. Copper plays a role in making red blood cells and maintaining nerve cells and the immune system. Copper also helps the body form collagen and absorb iron, and plays a role in energy production. Most copper in the body is found in the liver, brain, heart, kidneys, and skeletal muscle. Both too much and too little copper can affect how the brain works. The recommended daily allowance (RDA) is around 900 micrograms a day for adolescents and adults. The upper limit for adults aged 19 years and above is 10 milligrams (mg) a day. An intake above this level could be toxic. Both copper deficiency and copper toxicity are rare in the United States (U.S).
Tag: soy milk
Calcium
What does calcium do?
Calcium is needed to build and maintain strong bones.es. The heart, muscles and nerves also need calcium to function properly. Some studies suggest that calcium, along with vitamin D, protects against cancer, diabetes and high blood pressure.
How much do I need?
Adults need at least 1000 milligrams a day of calcium. For women over 50 and all adults over 70, 1200 milligrams are recommended.
Are supplements recommended?
Food is the best source of any nutrient, and some plant foods are rich in calcium. Include a variety of calcium-rich foods in your daily meals. Talk to your health care provider if you have doubts about whether you need a supplement in addition to the food sources.
What are some good plant food sources of calcium?
| Source | milligrams of calcium |
|---|---|
| 1 cup enriched soy milk | 290 |
| 100 g tofu | 250 |
| 1 cup soy beans | 175 |
| 1 cup white beans | 160 |
| 1 cup spinach | 145 |
| 1 Tbsp tahini | 120 |
| 1 cup edamame | 100 |
| 1 cup chickpeas | 80 |
| 1 Tbsp chia seeds | 75 |
| 1 orange | 65 |
| 1 cup red mung beans | 65 |
| 1 cup broccoli | 60 |
| 1 cup okra | 60 |
| 1 cup snap beans | 65 |
| 2 figs | 40 |
| 1 medium sweet potato | 40 |
| 1 cup parsley | 40 |
| 1 medium carrot | 40 |
| 1 cup mashed pumpkin | 40 |
| 1 cup cabbage | 35 |
| 9 almonds | 30 |
| 1 cup quinoa | 30 |
| 2 medium tomatoes | 30 |
| 1 cup arugula | 30 |
| 3 brazil nuts | 25 |