The chilly nights and shortened days are upon us! As we change out our wardrobe and put an extra blanket on at night, we also begin to crave the hearty foods of fall. Thank goodness so many of these foods are rich in vitamins, minerals and packed with powerful polyphenols that can keep our bones and our body strong and healthy through the winter months.
Poly….what? Polyphenols are phytochemicals found primarily in plant foods such as fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices. They provide both antioxidant activity as well as have anti-inflammatory properties making them great for your bones! It has been shown that excessive oxidative stress can contribute to bone loss that leads to the development of osteoporosis (1). Consuming antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables can improve bone mass through enhancing bone formation and suppressing bone resorption.
Gone are the juicy fruits and vegetables that keep us hydrated and cool during the summer months so bring on the rich food of the autumn harvest. Apples, pears, sweet potatoes, squash, cauliflower, pumpkin and sunflower seeds are a few of the fall’s best bone building foods.
As we fall back, this coming weekend, cherish your extra hour of sleep and then go shopping for these nutritious fall foods that can help enhance the strength and durability of your bones. |