Should I avoid spinach if I have osteoporosis?

It may seem like a strange question, but many women who have osteoporosis or are in danger of developing menopausal osteoporosis have been led to think that eating spinach is actually bad for them. This is because spinach, while it has many health benefits, actually blocks the absorption of calcium. But up until now, you've probably heard that the leafy green vegetable was essential to a nutritious diet. So which one is it?

Spinach and calcium

Spinach contains a lot of valuable vitamins and minerals, such as potassium, magnesium, vitamin K, and-yes-even calcium. However, for all of its benefits, spinach also contains oxalates, which prevent the absorption of that calcium by the bones. Other vegetables, like beet greens and rhubarb, also possess a similar nutritional makeup. Because of this tiny piece of the nutritional puzzle, people believe that it is harmful to eat spinach if you have, or fear having, osteoporosis.

This is categorically untrue

The health benefits of spinach far outweigh its drawback concerning calcium. In addition, there are other, richer sources of calcium that a person can consume to help improve bone density. Spinach will not negate the calcium content of these foods, even if consumed at the same time. For example, if you choose to eat a spinach casserole that also contains cheese, the calcium from the cheese will still find its way to your bones.

Calcium and nutrition-the facts

If you are suffering from osteoporosis, there are several types of food that you should avoid. Thankfully, none of them are spinach. Generally, these foods are considered more troublesome because they don't just tie up the calcium that they contain and keep it from being absorbed by the body. They go straight to the bones and actually steal existing calcium deposits. Stay away from these instead.

• Table salt.
• Caffeine.
• Soft drinks that include phosphoric acid as an ingredient.

On the other hand, foods that you want to consume to strengthen your bones include the following:

• Protein, such as lean chicken, turkey or pork.
• Dairy foods, such as milk, yogurt and cheese.
• Foods rich in vitamin D, such as fortified cereals, eggs, and saltwater fish”.

More Information about Osteoporosis

Roughly one third of women aged 50 and up will suffer the consequences of low bone density in the form of fractures and bone breaks. Click the following link to learn more about osteoporosis and nutrition.

To learn more about Osteoporosis