Chocolate and Calcium

Question
Some time back, I'd read that chocolate inhibits the absorbtion of calcium, so you can't count the calcium in a glass of chocolate milk as part of your daily requirement.  However, more recently, I have heard that the benefit of the calcium in milk out ways the concern of the added sugar/calories of chocolate milk.  In other words, give 'em chocolate milk if that's the only way you can get them to drink milk.  Does chocolate negate the calcium in milk?  

Answer
Dear Kari,
Real chocolate contains oxalates which may decrease the absorption of calcium. Iron, and phytates (found in whole grains) can also decrease absorption of calcium. I doubt chocolate milk contains enough real chocolate to cause any problems with calcium absorption, plus milk has the added benefit of Vitamin D supplementation which aids absorption. The problem I have with chocolate milk, is not that it might limit calcium absorption, but that its full of sugar. Overweight kids crave sugar and they drink it for that reason. It is best to leave sweets for birthday parties and holidays. Other good ways to get the calcium in kids is to buy OJ that has calcium added. That type of calcium is easier to absorb.
Have a great summer, Laura Kraemer,Slimkids.com

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