Plant foods that have a positive effect on bones

Introduction

A diet that promotes the maintenance of healthy bones and reduces the risk of diseases that weaken them (including osteoporosis) should contain the right amount of calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins (mainly D and K ) and proteins. Their source is not only meat, fish, and dairy products. Ingredients that have a positive effect on bones are also found in plant foods.

Healing properties

What plant products should be included in the menu to ensure the excellent condition of our bones? Selected plants are listed below, which provide a good source of ingredients of particular importance in this regard.

Calcium

As much as 99% of calcium is found in teeth and bones. It is one of the major components involved in bone metabolism. Besides, it has many other functions – it is responsible for the proper contractility of muscles, and it is involved in the process of vasodilation and the secretion of hormones. Calcium deficiency leads to the development of rickets in children and osteopenia (early stage osteoporosis) and osteoporosis in adults (associated with an increased risk of fractures). Calcium-rich plant products include, for example:

• almonds,
• sesame,
• kale,
• parsley,
• legume seeds,
• broccoli sprouts,
• pak choi.

The source of calcium is also fortified plant products – vegetable drinks and tofu.

Magnesium

Magnesium increases the absorption of calcium in the bones. In addition, its adequate supply is necessary for the proper functioning of the nervous system and muscles. Magnesium deficiency has an adverse effect on calcium absorption, leads to joint problems, and causes increased nervousness and excessive sleepiness. Among the plant products rich in magnesium, the following can be mentioned:

• almonds,
• legume seeds,
• pumpkin seeds,
• Sunflower seeds,
• spinach,
• wheat germ,
• dill,
• Brazil nuts.

Vitamin K

Vitamin K is involved in the production of bone-building proteins and the metabolism of bone tissue. It plays an important role in the transport of calcium. Its deficiency leads to decreased bone density; therefore, people with osteoporosis should increase its consumption and/or supplementation. Vitamin K also plays a vital role in blood clotting and the prevention of ischemic heart disease. The rich sources of vitamin K include, among others:

• spinach,
• kale,
• watercress,
• basil,
• arugula,
• Brussels sprouts.

Protein

Both deficiency and excess protein can be harmful to your bones. Therefore, it is essential to precisely determine the individual needs of our body for this ingredient. Its source can be animal products (meat, fish, eggs, milk, and dairy products) and plant products. Fish (especially fatty sea fish, such as salmon, sardines, herring, mackerel) are also a source of other ingredients necessary for bones – omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and vitamin D. In turn, plant products rich in protein are:

• legume seeds,
• pumpkin seeds,
• sesame,
• almonds,
• nuts (mainly cashews, walnuts, hazelnuts),
• quinoa,
• buckwheat

Other ingredients that positively affect bones include omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamin D, zinc, potassium, and antioxidants. A rich source of these ingredients is fresh vegetables and fruits, nuts, pips and seeds, and whole-grain cereals.

Culinary properties

Many delicious dishes can be prepared using plant-based products rich in components essential for bones.

• Pak choi: salads (e.g., with the addition of tofu), oriental soups;
• Arugula: homemade pesto (e.g., with sunflower seeds, garlic and vegetable oil rich in omega-3 acids), salads, vegetable spreads, an addition to many dishes (including vegetable casseroles, dishes based on whole-grain pasta);
• Sesame: addition to salads, vegetable spreads, dietary coatings for meat and fish (you can coat them, for example, in olive oil mixed with sesame and your favorite spices);
• Almonds: an addition to dietary dishes in a dry and sweet version (e.g., vegetable and fruit and vegetable salads, oatmeal, millet, fit desserts);

Summary

A diet with a positive effect on bones and lowers the risk of osteoporosis should contain adequate amounts of calcium, vitamins D and K, protein, magnesium, zinc, potassium, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, and antioxidants. It is worth remembering that the source of these valuable ingredients is also plant products, such as green leafy vegetables, pulses, whole grains, vegetable oils, nuts, pips, and seeds.