Having strong bones is important for healthy aging. Our skeleton helps us maintain balance and allows us to move around. When we break a bone, we are left “out of commission” in order to allow the bone to heal. This means we may not be able to do the things we once did and our abilities become greatly limited. Instead, we may become bed-ridden and must be cared for by others.
For years you have been told that calcium is the key to strong bones, but more recent studies have unveiled that calcium supplements are linked to heart problems. The good news is, there are other alternatives that you can try in order to maintain strong bones and protect yourself from the hardships associated with bone fractures. (Your CoQ10 levels fall at an alarming rate after your 20s.)
Simple ways to maintain strong bones
Advertisement
Sunlight and mushrooms: Sunlight provides vitamin D, which helps with calcium absorption (an integral part of maintaining strong bones). When we are exposed to the sun’s rays, our body starts producing vitamin D. The only problem is, prolonged exposure to sunlight can be harmful. It’s important that you use sunscreen and protective clothing whenever you are outdoors.
If sunlight isn’t available, you can still promote the production of vitamin D by eating mushrooms. Set mushrooms in the sun for two days. They will produce vitamin D in a similar way your skin does. The vitamin D produced by the mushrooms holds its full strength for up to a year.
Apple cider vinegar and herbs: There are certain herbs known to help keep your bones strong, but when combined with apple cider vinegar, their benefits amp up. All you have to do is allow the herbs and apple cider vinegar to sit and infuse for a few weeks. Once your new herbal vinegar is ready, you can add a tablespoon of it to your drink and you are good to go. This tonic will boost your intake of vitamins and minerals that are essential for your bone health.
Probiotics for a healthy gut: You may not think that a healthy stomach translates to healthy bones, but it does! Your gut contains millions of bacteria, both good and bad, which help regulate your overall health. When your gut is healthy, food is easily broken down and digested, meaning your bones receive the nutrients they need to stay strong. When your gut is unhealthy, these nutrients aren’t absorbed as easily, leading to nutritional deficiencies. Taking a probiotic or eating probiotic-rich foods can go a long way in maintaining good gut health. Fermented foods like kimchi and sauerkraut are great examples. (Suffering from constipation or diarrhea? Find out how you can get relief.)
These natural tips for strong bones can help you better prevent a possible fracture and ensure you stay healthy overall.
Related: Eat these foods for strong bones
