You may have noticed that I’ve been including agave nectar in some of my recipes lately. Is it good for you? The brand I use is!  You can read about the benefits of agave nectar–as well as the warnings–by clicking on this link from Global Healing Center:

http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/is-agave-nectar-safe/

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Kathy on June 13th, 2011
Amino Acid: The Building Block of Protein

Are you getting enough protein in your diet? Yes, protein is acidifying, but the OsteoDiet promotes a healthy balance of 80% alkaline/20% acid.  The body needs protein!  To produce and maintain cells, manufacture antibodies and enzymes, regulate fluid balance, and boost metabolism, the body needs adequate protein intake.

How much protein do you need?  Multiply your weight in kilograms by .8, or multiply your weight in pounds by .37.
At 120, I should eat about 44 grams of protein per day.

My typical protein sources include:  almonds, walnuts, pecans, eggs, black-eyed peas, lean beef, chicken, turkey, Cocoa Cherry Standard Bars from Standard Process, and shakes made with Juice Plus+ Complete Whole Food Based Drink Mix.  Actually, though, even a plant-based diet that includes a wide variety of whole foods consisting of beans, whole-grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, along with products made from these natural foods, such as tofu and tempeh, can deliver enough adequate protein to the body. Those who believe plant protein is inferior to animal protein may be surprised to learn that plant proteins contain the same 22 amino acids as animal proteins.

To read more about protein and your health, click on the links below:

Protein: How Much Do You Need?
http://lowcarbdiets.about.com/od/nutrition/a/protein.htm

The Benefits of Protein
http://www.freefitnesstips.co.uk/protein-benefits.html

Protein in Plant Foods
http://www.vegparadise.com/protein.html

 

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Kathy on June 11th, 2011

Dr. Susan Brown of BetterBones.com recommends using a weighted vest to increase the effectiveness of walking as a weight-bearing exercise for building bone strength, especially for thin women of 114 pounds or less.  My doctor recommended something similar: a bookback with a few heavy books inside.  Nowadays, though, my I walk carrying one of my beautiful grandbabies, which is fun for both of us!

If you have a moment, take a look Dr. Brown’s informative article on the subject:  http://www.betterbones.com/blog/post/Thin-women-and-hip-bone-loss.aspx.

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Kathy on June 8th, 2011

Who would have thought that carrot cake would taste even better if I replaced the canola oil with fruit?  I wasn’t too sure, but I’m a believer now!  This carrot cake is deliciously moist, and it’s good for your bone health!

You will need:
Large mixing bowl
a 9 x 13 glass baking pan -or- a bundt pan
4 eggs
3/4 cup agave nectar
1/2 cup applesauce, unsweetened
1/2 cup crushed pineapple, in its own juice (not syrup)
2 cups barley flour
2 tsp cinnamon
2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
3 cups grated carrots
1/2 cup chopped pecans

Directions:  In large bowl, mix together the eggs, agave nectar, applesauce, and pineapple.  Add flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, and mix well.  Stir in carrots and pecans until the batter is well blended.  Bake at 350 degrees for about 40 minutes, or until an inserted knife comes out clean.  Instead of icing, serve topped with So Delicious brand frozen coconut milk dessert.  Scrumptious!

 

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HymanHigh fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a big no-no for the OsteoDiet! Read Dr. Hyman’s article, 5 Reasons High Fructose Corn Syrup Will Kill You, to find out why.

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Kathy on April 30th, 2011

HymanAre you still trying to build bones by consuming dairy products?  As we have shared many times on OsteoDiet, milk does NOT do a body good.  Got milk?  I hope not!

Please read this important article from Dr. Mark Hyman to see why!

Dairy: 6 Reasons You Should Avoid It at All Costs

Cacao powderI haven’t tried this snack recipe from Vivian Goldschmidt of SaveOurBones.com yet, but today I plan to pick up the ingredients not currently on my shelf and give it a go.  It sounds yummy to me!  

You will need:

Mixing bowl and spoon
2 tablespoons almonds, chopped or whole
1 tablespoon walnuts, chopped or whole
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds
1 tablespoon raisins
1 tablespoon honey (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon cacao (chocolate) powder*

Directions:  In bowl, mix all ingredients till nuts and seeds are well coated with honey and cacao powder.

Note: You can use unsalted or salted, raw or roasted nuts and seeds.

*The organic unsweetened cacao powder Vivian uses is:   Navitas Naturals Organic Cacao Power Raw Chocolate – 16 oz

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