|
N u t r
i t i o n N e w s l e t t e r |
|
OSTEOPOROSIS AND NATURAL THERAPY The word osteoporosis means thin or porous bones. An interesting fact is that it is a disease of modern civilizations. Cultures who eat basically Vegetarian diet, with little to no dairy rank lowest in this disorder. Now here's a fact that needs to be addressed more! The link between osteoporosis and our modern diets can no longer be ignored. In Surinam, South Africa the older people ages 67-94, had much better bone density than the average American of this age group. The average senior American consumes more calcium, but have thinner bones (zeegeaar, F.J., et al. 1967. Studies on physiology of nutrition in Surinam. XI. The skeleton of aged people in Surinam. AmJ Clin Nutr 20:43-45). Although there are other cause of osteoporosis, such as endocrine disorders, as well as rheumatoid arthritis (another low occurring disease in rural, less developed nations), and chronic lung disease, the majority of cases point to lifestyle. Lifestyles such as cigarette smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, give rise to thinning bones. And lack of exercise! How about diet? Although disease are multiafactorial in cause, a modern refined diet, high in sugar, white flour, processed foods, high animal fat, seems to be a sure recipe for thin bones. Eating this diet, is void of life saving nutrients to feed the bones, as well as every working system. To put in simple eat as close to natural as you can. Eat only whole grains, limited animal fats, with exception of fish (especially omega 3 ones). Stop poisoning your body with sugar! Eat lots of leafy greens, beans, and unprocessed nuts. Start reading labels, if you can't say the ingredient, don't buy it. SUPPLEMENTS Most people are far from a healthy diet, so supplements can give extra protection! MAGNESIUM An overwhelming amount of magnesium is found in the bones, 50%! The body contains about 20 to 28 grams of this mighty mineral. It is crucial for strong bone growth, and teeth. Doctor Shari Lieberman, PHD, cites optimum intake to be between 500-750 mg daily (The Real Vitamin & Mineral Book, pp.146-147). Adverse effects are rare in taking this supplement. Toxic levels have been reported with 9,000 miligrams, which is a lot to swallow! BORON This mighty trace mineral can increased calcium absorption as much as 40%. Dosage is usually around 3 mg. No toxic levels have been reported. Boron enhances conversion of vitamin D, which in turn enhances calcium's availability to the bones. CALCIUM Calcium the superstar in the fight for strong bones. Vitamin D is very
important of maintenance of sufficient calcium levels. In the average adult
about 600 to 700 milligrams are exchanged for strong bone balance. This means your body must have enough calcium supply for bone
density and balanced blood calcium levels. If the blood levels fall, the body may pull calcium out of the bones, thus the genesis of thinner
bone take shape. Calcium supplements should always include, vitamin D, and magnesium. Other Super Supplements Other protective supplements are as follows: an optimal vitamin and mineral supplement. Vitamin C with bioflavonoids, Silicon (check your multi for this trace element). An herb called horsetail is rich in silicon. "Do not be wise in your
own eyes: fear the Lord and shun evil.
|