Affinity Magazine April 2012_Layout 1 copy 15/03/2012 15:25 Page 10
Osteoporosis ecently I have been speaking to several people who have recently been diagnosed with Osteoporosis, or thinning of the bones and I felt compelled to write about this degenerative disease. There are many causes of Osteoporosis and men are affected as well as women. Whilst I understand their very natural concern about receiving this diagnosis, after a fracture to the wrist or ankle, I want to stress the positive by saying that our bones are constantly regenerating and repairing whatever our age – although this regeneration does slow down as we
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age. There is a constant dynamic interchange between osteoclasts - bone cells responsible for breaking down and re-cycling old bone tissue and osteoblasts, which repair and regenerate bone tissue and this battle goes on throughout our life. Therefore, to strengthen bones we need to create the environment within the body that helps osteoblasts to thrive. I have outlined some Ayurvedic and Naturopathic remedies which will help this process, either if you have been diagnosed or are at risk of osteoporosis.
An alkaline diet Acid forming foods, such as sugar, coffee, overly processed food, white carbs and diet colas leads to acidosis and leaching of calcium from the bones in order to alkalise and balance the body. Over time this weakens the bones. Fruit, vegetables - especially root vegetables and leafy greens, along with nuts and seeds provide the re-alkalising minerals needed to repair bone tissue and keep it strong.
Supplementation Research shows that Vitamin D supplements help to reduce bone fractures. There are some 20 nutrients needed for healthy bones and good quality supplementation is essential. Seek professional advice as to the most suitable supplement for your needs. Herbs There are also several phyto- oestrogenic herbs, which help to protect against osteoporosis, along with calcium from natural sources. These can be tailor made formulas according to individual needs and the cause of the osteoporosis.
Anti-inflammatory foods Also add oily fish, walnuts, and olive oil for their omega-3 fatty acids which act as natural antiinflammatories in the body.
Reduction in stress The stress hormone cortisol can be detrimental to bone health if it’s secreted into the body 24/7 during periods of chronic stress.
Foods rich in Calcium and Magnesium These are just some of the foods which will keep bones strong • Broccoli • Bony sardines and salmon • Tofu and miso soup • Sesame and sesame seeds • Tahini • Blackstrap molasses • Green leafy vegetables i.e. rocket, kale, romaine lettuce • Brazil nuts
Therapeutic massage, with anti-inflammatory herbal oils, helps to slow the rate of deterioration, and massage allows the body and mind to relax. Cortisol is able to take a break from constantly circulating in the body and leaching calcium from the bones.
Ayurvedic Health tip
Exercise Gentle bone strengthening exercise includes walking, some particular yoga postures, T’ai chi and Qi gong.
Eating a handful of white sesame seeds can provide the daily RDA of 1200mg of calcium, along with other valuable minerals.
For further information contact Carolyn Wood-Herbalist and Naturopath MAMH, MANP, ITEC 07944 886502 www.vedatherapeutics.co.uk 12