Is spinach a good source of calcium?
Although spinach contains a significant amount of calcium, it is unavailable to the body because it is combined with a simple organic compound (called oxalic acid) found in plant foods. When combined with calcium, oxalic acid forms a salt known as an oxalate. Oxalate blocks the absorption of calcium. In addition to the calcium in spinach, that in swiss chard, beet greens, and rhubarb is also unavailable to the body. However, eating high oxalate foods like spinach along with milk or any other calcium source will not interfere with the availability of calcium in the other food. Oxalates will not have a negative effect on healthy bones as long as your calcium intake is adequate. Green leafy vegetables are good sources of other bone healthy nutrients such as beta-carotene and vitamin K. They are good choices as part of a well-balanced diet.
