Did you know that maintaining healthy bones is crucial for overall well-being? What lots of people don't know is that certain foods can have a negative impact on bone density. Read on to find out which foods to avoid to optimise your bone health.
Carbonated Drinks
Carbonated drinks contain high levels of phosphoric acid. This acid can lead to a decrease in calcium levels in the body, which can weaken bones over time.
Table Salt (Sodium Chloride)
While salt is necessary for the body, excessive salt intake can cause harm to bones. High salt intake can cause the body to lose calcium through urine, decreasing bone density over time. Processed and fast foods are often very high in salt. Sodium chloride is an artificial chemical, so natural sea salt or rock salt is a better alternative.
Excess Caffeine
Consuming too much caffeine in coffee, tea, and some soft drinks can lead to a loss of calcium from the body. This calcium loss can weaken bones over time, especially when combined with other factors like low calcium intake and lack of physical activity.
Hydrogenated Oils
Hydrogenated oils, or trans fats, are commonly found in processed and fried foods. These oils can interfere with the body's ability to absorb and use calcium, decreasing bone density over time. Hydrogenated oils are often associated with other unhealthy eating habits, which can further harm bone health.
Over-the-Counter Medication
Some over-the-counter medications can harm bone health when used excessively. Certain pain medications, like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can also contribute to bone loss when used for long periods.
What should you do to maintain healthy bones?
Well, everyone’s talking about collagen in relation to bone health and here’s why.
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, making up around one-third of all protein. It's a key component of bones, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage, among other tissues. Collagen strengthens bones by providing the structure and framework for mineralisation, the process by which minerals like calcium and phosphate are deposited in the bone matrix to increase bone density and strength.
Collagen comprises amino acids, including glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, that play critical roles in collagen formation and function. These amino acids provide the necessary building blocks for collagen synthesis, which is essential for developing and maintaining strong bones. Glycine, in particular, is an essential amino acid for collagen synthesis as it comprises nearly one-third of collagen's total amino acid content.
Hydroxyproline, another essential amino acid found in collagen, is critical in collagen stability and cross-linking. It helps to reinforce the collagen fibres, making them more resistant to degradation and breakdown.
Proline, another amino acid found in collagen, plays a role in collagen synthesis and stability. It is essential for the proper folding and structure of collagen fibres, which is necessary to form strong bones.
Collagen strengthens bones by providing the structure and framework for mineralisation. The amino acids glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline are essential collagen components and play critical roles in collagen synthesis and function. Individuals can help support collagen synthesis and maintain healthy bones by incorporating foods rich in these amino acids.
And guess what? Chlorella contains all the essential amino acids needed for collagen synthesis. Another reason why it's such an incredible supplement!
