Natural Foods For Bone Health

My Journey with Osteoporosis

On my annual visit to my gynecologist, I got the news.  "Your ovaries have left the building".  Yes.  That is what he said.  I, like many others, never ever questioned the doctor.  So that was it.  My ovaries had left the building.  I just proceeded as normal.   A couple of years later, in search of a new primary doctor, I made an appointment with an internal medical practitioner that a friend had suggested.  There I had my first bone density test.  I was in great shape and good health so I was flabbergasted at the news.  She informed me that I had osteoporosis.  She also informed me that my back could break just while standing at the kitchen sink.  

 Yes, that is exactly what she said.  Needless to say, that was my last visit to her and her bedside manner.  Point being, if my gynecologist had told me that I was going through menopause a year earlier, and I would need to treat my body carefully including the right vitamins and minerals.  I could have stopped this disease in its tracks.  

Menopause and Osteoporosis

Menopause and post-menopause are times when osteoporosis commonly presents itself, so it is important to be aware of the facts!

One reason that a woman’s chances of developing osteoporosis increases during menopause has to do with hormones—specifically estrogen. Estrogen protects your bones. When you reach menopause, your estrogen levels drop. In some cases, this decrease in estrogen can lead to bone loss, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF).

Foods for Bone Health

Another reason that menopausal women are at a higher risk for osteoporosis has to do with not getting enough minerals that help your body maintain healthy bones. When you aren’t getting enough calcium, your body uses the calcium stored in your bones, leaving them weakened and vulnerable to fractures and breaks. Your body also needs vitamin D to absorb calcium.

 There you go!  If someone had just told me that in the beginning, I wouldn't be repairing my bone strength.  They would have gotten what they needed in the first place!  Here are some natural foods to keep your bones good and strong!

Fish

Fish is rich source of calcium and the perfect osteoporosis diet should include fish.  Sardines and Salmon are great sources of calcium which helps keep bones healthy and strong.

Yogurt

Yogurt is a great source of animal protein and several other nutrients such as Vitamin B2, calcium, potassium, Vitamin D, magnesium and Vitamin B12.  Decreased levels of estrogen can cause bone loss and so the body primarily needs Vitamin D and calcium.

Milk and Eggs

Both provide vital vitamens and minerals your body needs for strong bones.

Cabbage

Yes, cabbage.  So many kinds to choose from.  One of the best foods for osteoporosis.

Bananas

Regular eating of a banana helps the body absorb calcium and other essential nutrients that ensure healthy bones... also prevents hangovers!

Beans and Lentils

Folate plays and important role in the development of red blood cells necessary for bone repair and maintenance.

Fruits and Vegetables

All loaded with vitamens and minerals to slow down the process of bone loss.

Almonds

Almonds promotes healthy bones and increases bone density.  They are an inseparable part of the osteoporisis diet plan.

Don't get me wrong, a good doctor is always needed.  But know your body.  Keep going inquiring until you get the answers you need.  Love yourself!  

 Stay healthy.... xoxo, Melinda