More than 10 million people in the United States have osteoporosis, and 80 percent of those are women. Putting that into real terms, one in two women over the age of 50 will fracture a bone because of osteoporosis!

 

Many people believe that just taking a calcium supplement or drinking several glasses or milk a day will maintain healthy bones. However, bone health is more complex than that. 

 

Here are a few of the misconceptions people have been led to believe about bone health.

• Misconception 1: Too much protein is detrimental to bone strength.  The truth is protein builds collagen, which builds bones.
• Misconception 2: We should consume only low fat foods. The truth is research indicates that we need sufficient healthy fats in our diets because the fats provide bone mesh to which minerals attach.
• Misconception 3: The only mineral that bones need is calcium. The truth is that bones require a variety of minerals including magnesium, zinc, phosphorus and calcium, along with vitamin D.  Another important consideration with calcium is to take a form that your body can absorb. Nutritional Weight & Wellness recommends you choose calcium citrate for best results.

 

Medication isn’t the only option to strengthen your bones, despite what actresses claim on television ads. Good nutrition supplies the building blocks for strong bones.  Eating a variety of foods containing animal protein, vegetable carbohydrates and healthy fats provides the vitamins and minerals essential for strong bones. Are the foods and beverages you eat supporting your bones or weakening them?

 

If you are experiencing bone loss, learn the nutritional options by attending our Nutritional Solutions for Osteoporosis class or by scheduling an individual consultation with a nutrition counselor. Nutrition is your first and best solution for bone health.