According to recent studies on bone loss our North American diet is so acidic it is destroying our bones! Most people increase calcium intake when we hear we need denser bones- but we are missing some steps. Diets high in proteins and cereal grains cause more calcium to be excreted than retained. So, we are just peeing away our added calcium rather than building a stronger structure to combat aging. To fight the acidosis we can increase our magnesium as well as potassium in our diets. A diet high in vegetables and fruits increases potassium and magnesium levels in the body, reduces calcium output and shows an increase in our bone mineral density. Balancing your food can increase bone health!
Symptoms of magnesium deficiency can be anxiety, muscle twitches, confusion and disorientation. This makes me wonder how many neurological problems can be attributed to Magnesium deficiency. It is also thought that a deficiency in this mineral is closely related to heart disease, blood clots and kidney troubles. A diet too proteins, coffee, and refined sugars can lead to a Magnesium deficiency(fast food anyone?). Excellent sources of this mineral are; almonds, citrus fruits, bananas, seafood, molasses and baked potatoes.
Potassium deficiency can go unnoticed in a mild case but more severe cases can cause muscle weakness, hypertension, abnormal heartbeat, and fatigue. Excellent sources of potassium in foods are; avocado, beans, melons and squash.
If you start to demand that the foods be as natural as possible you will be able to better balance your body. A lot of health advocates teach "If it did not have a mother or grow from the earth do not eat it!" This is so basic and such an easy tool to use when we look at our food as medicine for the body. We can increase longevity and the quality of our life as well.
