7 Superfoods for Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition that makes a person’s bones weak and brittle. The main factors that trigger this condition include a lack of calcium in the body and age. Here are some superfoods for osteoporosis to keep the bones strong and prevent the condition from worsening.
1. Dairy products
Adults need about 700 mg of calcium every day. Therefore, dairy products are one of the superfoods for osteoporosis. One can include milk, cheese, and yogurt in their food plan as these provide the body the calcium it requires. Here are the calcium levels in a few dairy products.
- 100 ml milk – 125 mg
- 100 g cheddar cheese – 720 mg
- 100 g Greek yogurt – 110 mg
2. Leafy greens
While dairy products are a major source of calcium, what will vegans do? Leafy greens are the way to go. Leafy greens such as Chinese cabbage, spinach, kale, and collard greens are all superfoods for osteoporosis. Here are the calcium levels in such greens:
- 100 g of spinach – 99 mg
- 100 g of collard greens – 232 mg
- 100 g of Chinese cabbage – 105 mg
3. Sweet potatoes
While sweet potatoes are not high in calcium, they are a rich source of potassium and magnesium. When magnesium is deficient in the body, a person cannot process vitamin D, which, in turn, affects calcium levels. When a person is potassium-deficient, acidic levels in the body increase, and the body loses calcium.
4. Figs
Figs are wonderful fruits full of calcium. One does not have to load up on calcium supplements for osteoporosis if they eat figs regularly. Both fresh and dried figs are equally calcium-rich. 100 grams of figs contain about 120 mg of calcium.
5. Almonds
Almonds are one of the superfoods for osteoporosis. 100 grams of almonds have approximately 260 mg of calcium. One can roast almonds slightly to snack on between meals.
6. Mushrooms
Vitamin D is required to absorb calcium. Most people with osteoporosis are both vitamin D and calcium deficient. Mushrooms are a good source of vitamin D, and including them in the diet indirectly increases calcium levels.
7. Soya
Soya beans are legumes widely grown and consumed for their nutritional value. 100 grams of raw soya beans have about 277 mg of calcium. One can consume soy in different forms such as soy sauce, soy milk, or soy-enriched drinks.
All of these are superfoods for osteoporosis that keep a person’s bones strong. With the right food and proper medication, one can handle this condition successfully and prevent pain and discomfort from worsening. One must stay moderately active and consider calcium supplements to feel healthier.