Nutrition and Osteoporosis: How to Protect Your Health
November 9, 2022
Like the rest of your body, your bones need nutrients to thrive. Having a healthy diet is crucial to maintaining your overall health, as well as the wellbeing of your bones – and the prevention of osteoporosis.
An important way of maintaining proper bone health and preventing bone diseases like osteoporosis is by focusing on proper nutrition. Diets rich in nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, iron, and other micronutrients play a huge role in preventing osteoporosis.
Eating a well-balanced diet can provide your body with the nutrients it needs. Here are a few ways to incorporate healthier food options into your daily diet.
Ways to Change Your Diet to Prevent Against Osteoporosis
Eating Fruits, Veggies, and Whole Grains
Eating foods that are low in calories and fat, but high in fiber and vitamins can help protect your bones against diseases. Whole grains, fruits, and veggies are high in magnesium, potassium, and vitamin C. It is recommended to eat four servings a day.
Limit Processed Foods
Foods that are processed contain harmful additives, like phosphorus. This can interfere with how much calcium is absorbed into your body. Foods that are high in sugar and salt are also harmful and have been known to offer little nutritious value. A diet high in sugar is highly caloric and little vitamins. Too much salt can affect your blood pressure and increase calcium excretion.
Eat Healthy Fats
In order to function correctly, your body needs some fat in its diet. Monounsaturated fats – those found in nuts, olive oil, and seeds – is the best choice. Including omega-3 fatty acids that is found in cold water fish provides your body with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) that is important to your body’s overall health.
Include More Protein
A major component of your bone tissue is protein. Include plant proteins like beans and nuts for a good source of vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds that help preserve bone density. Protein like milk and yogurt are another good source of protein, and they also include calcium, which is important for your bone health.
Reduce Alcohol
Alcohol has been linked to the deterioration of bone and the body’s ability to absorb calcium. If you choose to drink, drink in moderation – meaning one drink a day in adults older than 65 and no more than two drinks a day for men 65 and younger. Because women already have a higher susceptibility to bone disease, drinking more than 2 alcoholic beverages a day can hasten bone loss.
Reduce the Risk of Osteoporosis with a Balanced Diet
There are clear benefits to having a diet rich in calcium and vitamin-D. Other micronutrients that optimize bone health can be achieved by adopting a diet that is high in fruits and vegetables that increase the intake of magnesium, potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin K. Not only will it help strengthen your bones, but will help prevent diseases, damage, and fractures.
Contact the Haydel Spine Pain & Wellness team to learn more about lifestyle changes you can make to help osteoporosis. Fill out the form below.