Wednesday, February 18, 2009

New way to keep bones strong.

Generally, you can see bone density changes on x-ray even if it is not a conclusive study for osteopenia or osteoporosis. When I see evidence of bone density changes, I refer my patients back to their PCP (Primary Care Physician) for consideration of a bone density study.
Bone loss is a natural process that comes with aging. All of us lose bone at varying rates. Daily doses of calcium and Vitamin D are good in keeping bones strong. But new research suggests that another dietary move may be as important as the aforementioned.
You see, it is a matter of chemistry. When you digest carbohydrates, the process causes your digestive track to become acidic. Here lies the problem because high-level acid environment leaches calcium from bone. In contrast, fruits and vegetables create a skeletal friendly alkaline environment. The American diet tends to be acid-producing which is hard on older people whose kidneys can't clear acid compounds quickly. So by tweaking your diet, you may be able to prevent bone loss. Here are some suggestions:
1: Include two vegetable or fruit servings at every meal and eat no more than two daily servings or carbs like bread, cereal, and pasta. Also, here are some substitutions that will help as well.
Eat the first item instead of the second item:

Potatoes instead of pasta.
Fruit juice instead of soda.
Tofu instead of meat and poultry.
Wine instead of beer.
Raisins instead of Peanuts.

Happy eating everyone.

"The journey of life is taken one step at a time... none of them should be painful." G.M. Barclay, DPM, AACFAS

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