The Benefits of Calcium Citrate: A Delicious Addition to Your Queso
When it comes to maintaining a healthy diet, calcium plays a crucial role in supporting bone health, muscle function, and overall well-being. One of the lesser-known forms of calcium supplementation is calcium citrate, which has gained popularity for its superior absorption and digestive benefits. In this article, we’ll explore the advantages of calcium citrate and how you can incorporate it into your diet—specifically through a delicious queso recipe that the whole family will love!
What is Calcium Citrate?
Calcium citrate is a calcium salt of citric acid, and it is often recommended as a dietary supplement because it is more easily absorbed by the body compared to other forms of calcium, such as calcium carbonate. This means that individuals who may experience digestive issues or those who are on medications that reduce stomach acid can benefit from calcium citrate supplementation.
Why Choose Calcium Citrate?
1. Enhanced Absorption: Calcium citrate does not require a highly acidic environment for absorption, making it an excellent choice for those with low stomach acid or who take antacids.
2. Digestive-Friendly: Unlike some other calcium supplements, calcium citrate is less likely to cause constipation, making it a gentler option for your digestive system.
3. Versatile Use: Calcium citrate can easily be incorporated into various recipes, including delicious dishes like queso, allowing you to boost your calcium intake without the hassle of pills.
How to Incorporate Calcium Citrate into Queso
Queso is a beloved dish that can be enjoyed as a dip, topping, or even a main ingredient in various recipes. Here’s a simple and delicious queso recipe that allows you to incorporate calcium citrate while indulging in a cheesy treat.
Creamy Calcium Citrate Queso Recipe
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup cream cheese
– 1 cup milk (or a dairy alternative)
– 1 tablespoon calcium citrate powder (ensure it’s food-grade)
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1/4 cup diced green chilies (optional for a spicy kick)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tortilla chips for serving
Instructions:
1. Melt the Cheese: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the cream cheese and milk. Stir until the cream cheese is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
2. Add Cheddar: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese to the saucepan, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and well combined.
3. Mix in Calcium Citrate: Sprinkle the calcium citrate powder into the cheese mixture, stirring until fully incorporated. This adds a boost of calcium without altering the flavor.
4. Season: Add the diced tomatoes, green chilies, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until heated through.
5. Serve: Transfer the queso to a serving bowl and enjoy with tortilla chips!
Conclusion
Incorporating calcium citrate into your diet can be both easy and delicious. By using it in your favorite recipes like queso, you can enhance your calcium intake while enjoying a savory treat. Whether you’re looking to support bone health or simply want to add some nutritional value to your meals, calcium citrate can be your go-to supplement. So next time you’re craving queso, remember to add that extra boost of calcium for a guilt-free indulgence!