Calcium is an essential nutrient, which means it is a nutrient our bodies can’t make on its own. Therefore, we need to get enough calcium from the food we eat. Calcium helps build strong bones and teeth. Calcium is also needed for muscles such as the heart to contract, blood to clot, and nerve impulses to transmit in the body. If your calcium needs are not met through food intake, it will be withdrawn from your bones, which act as a depot for calcium. Milk products are excellent sources of calcium. Fluid milk contains vitamin D, which helps our body absorb calcium, and is equally important for bone health.