Bone Health

We often forget about our bones when we think of overall body health. Eating a diet rich in vegetables such

as the raw foods diet, may lower the risk of low bone density and osteoporosis. Dark green leafy vegetables, such as collards, kale, spinach, dandelion greens, and mustard greens are all beneficial and contain Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, and Vitamin K, nutrients that may prevent this silent disease. Fish, such as salmon, mackerel, tuna and sardines, contain Vitamin D.

According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, about 9 million Americans have osteoporosis. Nearly 60% of adults age 50 and older are at risk of breaking a bone. Calcium and Vitamin D is important to build healthy bones, but according to The Institute for Natural Healing, in their article "Replenish This Hormone to Protect Your Bones", there is another factor, a hormone.

The hormone is melatonin. We associate this hormone with our sleep and wake patterns, but normal levels of melatonin is important to protect your bones. 

"Normal melatonin levels are vital in protecting your bones. When your body has enough melatonin it signals cells to produce and mineralize bone matrix proteins. And bone matrix proteins lead to bone formation and increased density." The Institute for Natural Healing

Getting adequate sleep is crucial to maintain a healthy body and mind. Although at times it may be difficult to get enough sleep, there are a few things that we can do to help boost our melatonin levels. Eliminate all artificial light from the bedroom, even alarm clock. Bananas, ginger, radishes, tomatoes and red wine may help boost melatonin production naturally.

Original article written and posted by The Institute for Natural Healing.

Source: 

http://institutefornaturalhealing.com/2013/05/replenish-this-hormone-to-protect-your-bones/

http://www.nof.org/