Oct 24 2007
Health Matters: It’s up to you to protect your bones
By J.C. Carroll
(NC)-One in four women in Canada have osteoporosis, experts say. This is a disease that robs the body of bone density and puts it in the highest risk category for bone fractures. Taking steps to prevent osteoporosis is essential for everyone, and particularly for women as their estrogen levels decline during menopause.
Keeping your doctor informed about the onset on menopause is the first place to start - and becoming informed about exercise, foods and dietary supplements yourself is equally important.
Learn, for example, about all the foods recommended to nurture, rejuvenate, and fuel the efficient functioning of your body. Learn about botanicals and plant estrogens. Some of them are highly recommended to relieve menopause symptoms, like Promensil, a botanical derived from red clover. This over-the-counter supplement is heavily supported by clinical evidence to slow down the rate of bone loss in both menopausal and younger women.
“Promensil is an isoflavones, one of the plant estrogens,” says Dr. Nachtigall, professor of obstetrics and gynecology at New York University’s School of Medicine. “Red clover has all four of the most important isoflavones and it also has 10 to 20 times the quantity found in soy. Extensive clinical testing indicates that it may be the best natural supplement for menopause symptoms available.”
Here’s a checklist of additional steps you can take to ensure your bones stay healthy and strong:
o Increase calcium and vitamin D intake.
o Limit caffeine. No more than two to three cups coffee, tea, or cola per day.
o Do weight-bearing exercises at least 3 to 5 times per week.
o Discontinue cigarette smoking.
o Avoid excessive alcohol intake.
If you want to know more about how to treat your particular menopause symptoms, including dietary supplements, be sure to speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
Credit: www.newscanada.com

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