Keep your Bones Healthy with a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet can do more than just improve your heart health and help you keep off those extra pounds. Eating certain foods that provide the right combination of calcium and vitamin D can keep your bones healthy.

William Higginbotham, M.D, an orthopedic surgeon with Ascension Providence Hospital and the CORE Institute, says foods rich in calcium and vitamin D can boost our immune system and protect and make your bones stronger. “It’s important to know what foods that are rich in calcium and vitamin D and incorporate these foods in your diet. Making healthy choices can go a long way toward enhancing your bone health, especially as you get older.”

Dr. Higginbotham says these foods, all great sources for calcium and vitamin D, are your best bet for good bone health:

*Dairy products such as low-fat and non-fat milk, yogurt and cheese

*Fatty varieties of fish such as salmon, mackerel, tuna and sardines

*Dark green leafy vegetables such as kale, collard greens and spinach

According to Dr. Higginbotham, calcium and vitamin D are sometimes added to certain foods like juices, soy/rice milk, cereals, snacks and breads. He says most people should get enough calcium and vitamin D by eating a well-balanced diet with plenty of dairy, fish, fruits and vegetables.

It’s best to check with your doctor to make sure you’re getting the recommended amount of calcium and vitamin D in your diet. If you are not, your doctor might recommend that you take multivitamins or supplements.