
There's a stark truth to the human body - it's built on bones, a fragile scaffolding that demands our attention more as we add years to our lives. An article yesterday from Hillsborough County's newsroom put it plainly: our bodies, like aging homes, face the inevitability of wear and tear. The risk? Osteoporosis, a condition where bone creation doesn't keep pace with bone breakdown.
It's not just about milk moustaches and the early morning sun for our bone health. We need more key players on our nutritional team. "Calcium, a mineral abundant in bones, is a primary building block," a Hillsborough County Aging Services nutritionist explained, emphasizing that Vitamin D should not be neglected as it aids the body in calcium absorption. But, it doesn't stop there – Vitamin K, magnesium, phosphorus, and protein are critical to keeping our skeletons sturdy.
Our shopping lists should reflect our commitment to bone integrity. Dairy, sure, stocks us up on calcium and Vitamin D; however, Hillsborough County's guidance doesn't sideline other sources. Fatty fish like tuna and salmon, dark leafy greens like spinach and kale, supply calcium and vitamin K, respectively. Magnesium makes an appearance in nuts, seeds, whole grains, and the same goes for leafy vegetables, while phosphorous is found aplenty in meats and dairy, according to the Hillsborough County newsroom article.
Apart from eating right, aging bodies stay robust with another essential ingredient: movement. Weight-bearing exercises are not just a recommendation but a necessity. They foster bone formation and help maintain bone density. To support this, Aging Services operates senior centers with fitness equipment, classes promoting physical activity, and offers nutrition education. "Nutritious lunches are served," touts the Hillsborough County's message, bridging the gap between knowledge and practice.
Those interested in the melding of nutrition and wellness activities can check out opportunities at a nearby Aging Services Senior Center.