Much has been written about the importance of calcium for women's health, but men need calcium, too. Although osteoporosis is more prevalent in women, it can strike men. And recent studies have suggested that calcium may play some role in controlling blood pressure for some people--something that's worth asking your physician about.

In addition to eating foods high in calcium--like fat-free or low-fat milk, cheese, and yogurt--you can protect your bones by performing a weight-bearing exercise like walking regularly, by avoiding over-consumption of alcohol, and by getting your fair share of vitamin D (from either fortified milk or sunshine).

Medications like cortisone or Dilantin can interfere with calcium absorption, so if you're taking these medications, find out if you should also take a calcium supplement.