It’s never too early, or too late, to make bone health a priority. Ten million Americans have osteoporosis, a disease that makes bones become weak and more likely to break, and nearly 34 million have low bone mass, putting them at risk for osteoporosis.
For people of all ages, a healthy diet that includes three servings of low-fat or fat-free dairy foods a day and exercise can help nourish the bones by improving bone thickness and reducing the risk for osteoporosis. The “BONE Basics” can help the entire family be bone healthy at every age – whether you’re 8, 18, or 80 years old:
- Be active. Participating in weight-bearing and cardiovascular activities daily or at least several times a week.
- Own your diet. Adopt a lifestyle of proper nutrition that reflects the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and includes three servings a day of low-fat or fat-free milk, cheese or yogurt.
- Nourish your bones. For stronger bones, there’s no better source than dairy foods, which provide essential bone-building nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, protein and vitamin D.
- Encourage others. Be a role model by setting a good example. Children follow the lead of parents and older siblings.
Why not make a resolution that will keep you healthy for years to come? Start getting your three servings of dairy today, for strong bones for a lifetime.
For delicious dairy recipes and more tips, visit dccatalogue.wpengine.com or www.3aday.org.