My mother has always been pint-size, clocking in at 4’11.’’ When we saw her slowly shrinking in size with age, we knew it wasn’t because she stopped wearing heels. Mom was never an athlete and never caught the wave of the aerobics generation, but the woman could dance. Moving her body in any way not only lifts her spirits but also helps her build bone mass.

xoxo,

Sukey

Did you know that after around age 30, bone mass begins to diminish? And without proper care, our bones can become more brittle, which in many cases, can lead to bone disease. Make no bones about, maintaining bone health is just as important to our life as breathing is.

See how small changes in your diet can prevent the onset of osteoporosis and other degenerative bone diseases:

• Catch some rays: Enjoying the sun not only boosts moods, but nourishes your body with vitamin D that can prevent fractures and is integral in the absorption of calcium.
• Befriend fat: Healthy fats are rich in essential fatty acids (nuts, seeds and fatty fish). Their role in calcium and vitamin absorption make them a key nutrient for bone health.
• Sack the sugar: Refined sugar, alcohol and caffeine, and processed foods—think bacon—deplete the bones of calcium and minerals. Instead, replace them with calcium-rich foods and healthy fats.
• Get crafty with calcium: Calcium is a critical element to good bone health. Give dairy a break and mix it up with other calcium sources: veggies (cauliflower, sweet potatoes, kale) and seafood (seaweed, soft shell crab, sardines).