Nutrition & Wellness
Evidence-based nutrition information, seasonal produce guides, and kidney-friendly recipes to help you manage hypoparathyroidism through diet.
What's in Season: April
Eating seasonally means fresher produce with higher nutrient content. Here's what's at peak season this month — no photos, just the facts and vitamins.
High in Vitamin K, Vitamin A, Folate, Iron
High in Vitamin C, Folate, Magnesium, Fiber
High in Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Calcium, Folate
Great calcium source for hypopara
High in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Calcium
Excellent absorbable calcium
High in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Iron, Folate
High oxalate — may bind calcium
High in Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Fiber, Plant Protein
High in Vitamin C, Potassium, Folate
High in Vitamin K, Vitamin A, Manganese
High in Vitamin K, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Magnesium
High in Vitamin K, Vitamin C, Folate
High in Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Calcium, Potassium
Good absorbable calcium source
High in Vitamin K, Vitamin A, Calcium, Folate
Excellent calcium source
High in Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Calcium, Folate
High in Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Fiber
High in Vitamin C, Manganese, Folate, Fiber
High in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Potassium, Fiber
High in Vitamin K, Vitamin C, Calcium
Very high oxalate — avoid with calcium
High in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Folate, Fiber
High in Vitamin C, Manganese, Bromelain
High in Vitamin C, Citric Acid, Flavonoids
Updated on the 1st of each month. Last updated: April 1, 2026.
| Food | Serving (US) | Serving (Metric) | Calcium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sardines (canned, with bones) | 3 oz | 85 g | 325 mg |
| Yogurt (plain, low-fat) | 8 oz | 227 g | 415 mg |
| Milk (skim) | 8 oz | 240 ml | 299 mg |
| Cheese (cheddar) | 1.5 oz | 43 g | 307 mg |
| Kale (cooked) | 1 cup | 130 g | 177 mg |
| Broccoli (cooked) | 1 cup | 156 g | 62 mg |
| Tofu (calcium-set) | ½ cup | 126 g | 253 mg |
| Orange juice (fortified) | 8 oz | 240 ml | 349 mg |
| Almonds | 1 oz | 28 g | 76 mg |
| Bok choy (cooked) | 1 cup | 170 g | 158 mg |
- ●High-phosphorus foods (cola, processed meats) — can lower calcium
- ●Excessive caffeine — may increase calcium excretion
- ●High-oxalate foods (spinach, rhubarb) — can bind calcium
- ●Excessive fiber with calcium supplements — may reduce absorption
- ●Alcohol — can interfere with calcium metabolism
- 1Take calcium supplements in divided doses (no more than 500 mg at a time) for better absorption
- 2Take calcium carbonate with food; calcium citrate can be taken with or without food
- 3Space calcium supplements at least 2 hours apart from thyroid medication
- 4Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption — ensure adequate levels
- 5Magnesium supports calcium balance — discuss supplementation with your doctor
- 6Keep a food diary to track your daily calcium intake
- 7Stay hydrated — adequate water intake supports kidney function and calcium balance
Kidney-Friendly Recipes
Low phosphorus, high calcium recipes designed for the hypopara community. All recipes include both US and metric measurements. Click any recipe to expand, then use the print button to take it to your kitchen!
Check Your Calcium Levels
Use the Corrected Calcium Calculator to check your adjusted calcium levels.
Go to Calcium CalculatorDisclaimer: The nutrition information and recipes on this page are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your physician, endocrinologist, or registered dietitian before making changes to your diet, especially if you have hypoparathyroidism, kidney disease, or other medical conditions. Nutrient values are approximate.