Growing up in the Western world, we were all told from a very young age that drinking milk was the best way to keep our bones strong, because "milk is the best source of calcium in the diet". Fast forward to present day, and we know from various studies that women who consume more milk on a regular basis have higher instances of osteoporosis than women who do not drink milk.
The fact is that, like all animal protein, milk causes the pH of the blood to become more acidic, which then the body must correct and balance using sodium and calcium. If necessary, the body will leech calcium from the bones in order to do this, as calcium is great for neutralizing acidity, and will then release it from the body via the urinary tract. Threrefore, the bones and the body are losing calcium as a result of drinking milk. Many people are unable to properly digest dairy as well. For these people, consuming dairy products can cause mild to severe digestive upset, skin outbreaks, and a variety of other symptoms (which sometimes go un-recognized).
There is much more information to be discussed on this topic, but for today I would just like to share with you some of the best alternatives to dairy products that will provide your body with useable calcium, without over-acidifying the system:
Sesame seeds, chia seeds, spinach (especially cooked), almonds, broccoli, kale, collard greens (fresh picked & frozen are highest), mustard and turnip greens, quinoa, brussel sprouts, beans (white, baked, blackeyed, etc), tofu and tempeh (soy), bok choy, peas, baking powder, and seaweeds
are all high in calcium as well as many other healthful vitamins and
minerals needed and used by the body. Dark leafy-greens provide calcium
that is bio-available while also providing the body with nutritent-rich
chlorophyll and fiber, which aids the digestive tract. Some dried herbs
also contain calcium! Dried herbs that are calcium rich include dill, basil, marjoram, thyme, oregano, poppy seed, mint, celery seed, sage, parsley and rosemary.
It is also advisable to avoid excess sugar and sweets, and processed carbohydrates. These food products cause a surge in blood-sugar and insulin levels which, in-turn, causes a large excretion of calcium from the body, and potentially the bones. This is true for soda and other high-sugary drinks as well as sugary fruit juices. Caffeine is another culprit in encouraging calcium loss from bones and the body, so limit your intake of caffeinated products, like coffee.
It is also advisable to avoid excess sugar and sweets, and processed carbohydrates. These food products cause a surge in blood-sugar and insulin levels which, in-turn, causes a large excretion of calcium from the body, and potentially the bones. This is true for soda and other high-sugary drinks as well as sugary fruit juices. Caffeine is another culprit in encouraging calcium loss from bones and the body, so limit your intake of caffeinated products, like coffee.
For more information on this or other nutrition-related issues, visit my website: www.GoodnessMeGoddess.com.
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