Preventing the potentially crippling effects of osteoporosis is a concern for millions of people the world over. When it’s time to take a proactive stance toward prevention, reaching for some pineapple slices might provide a solution. This tropical fruit contains the trace element manganese, which has been strongly linked to the disease.
A Look At Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a disease that leads to a thinning of the bones. If left unchecked, bone thinning can progress to a point where fractures and breaks are common. The condition tends to be a silent one until complications arise.
Symptoms of the disease include:
- Undiagnosed pain in the bones
- A loss in height
- Sudden severe pain, especially in the back
- Compression fractures in the back
Risk Factors
There are a variety of risk factors for this disease. Some of the more common ones include:
- Being female – Men can get the disease, but It is much more common in women
- Age – Bone loss is more common after the age of 30
- Smoking
- Improper calcium and vitamin D consumption
- Leading a sedentary lifestyle
- Ethnicity – Asian and Caucasian women are more likely to develop osteoporosis
- Family history
- Bone and body structure – People who are thin and petite are more likely to develop this condition.
The Pineapple Connection
Pineapples contain a fair amount of manganese. This trace element is considered essential for the absorption of calcium in the body. Low levels of this substance have been linked to the development of osteoporosis. While an abundance of manganese isn’t required on a daily basis, getting enough can be essential for ensuring proper bone health and maintenance. Other benefits of this substance include support immune system health, blood sugar balancing and cellular health.
While pineapples are an excellent source of manganese, they are not the only option. Other potential sources to include in diet are:
- Whole grains
- Legumes
- Nuts
- Seeds
- Wheat germ
Eating For Bone Health
The best protection against osteoporosis is a lifelong commitment to building and maintaining strong bones. On the dietary front, this means eating a healthy, well-balanced diet. Some of the things that are important to consider include:
- Calcium – This mineral is essential for proper bone growth and maintenance. Roughly 1,500 milligrams a day should be consumed by people over the age of 50. Food-based intake should occur throughout the day for better absorption and use by the body. Calcium is found in dairy products, fortified cereals, broccoli, kale, turnip greens, salmon and a variety of other foods.
- Vitamin D – This vitamin is essential for the absorption of calcium by the body. It is found in such foods as fish, egg yolk and liver.
- Phosphorous – This is a mineral that is also essential for the production of healthy teeth and bones. It is found in milk and meat proteins. Some whole grains also contain this mineral.
Overall, it is essential to eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and other healthful foods to help prevent osteoporosis or stave off its effects if bone loss has already begun. Calcium supplements with vitamin D added can be quite useful, as well.
Preventing osteoporosis or warding off its more crippling effects is possible when diet and exercise combine to help build healthier, stronger bones. Pineapples can add an extra bit of protection when it’s needed the most.
