As we get older, our bones become weaker. I believe it is vital to consider measures to increase bone density and bone health as we age. Herbal Teas, supplements and calcium rich foods are all of benefit.
Our skeletal system is made up of cartilage and over 200 bones. It supports, moves and protects the body’s organs, stores vital nutrients and is involved in the regulation of blood cell production.
Bones appear to be so solid, but they are actually made up of compact bone and spongy bone. While the compact bone forms the outer layer, spongy bones house blood vessels and bone marrow. This is particularly important as it manufactures red and white blood cells as well as platelets. A very good reason to take care of our bones, but a reason not often thought about.
When we think of bone strength, we often think of Osteoporosis, which is often present in the elderly because aging causes bone loss, This is when we find bones become thin, weak and fragile as we get older so fractures of the wrist, spine, hips and limbs are common. Osteoporosis, of course, shows up as porous thin bones caused by a declining bone mass, and bone loss which causes fractures and deformities. If your bones are strong then a break will only occur with a serious trauma. This is why it is so important to undertake good bone support as we age. Over 80% of osteoporosis sufferers are post-menopausal women. Actually the whole skeletal structure can be involved in post-menopausal osteoporosis.
Risk factors for osteoporosis include genetics, age, white and Asian women are more prone to osteoporosis, and gender - women are more affected than men. Women who have had delayed periods, or those whose periods have stopped for reasons other than menopause, steroid use, cancers such as multiple myeloma and those who have had previous bone breaks due to osteoporosis.
Tips to support healthy bones
Regular exercise, particularly weight bearing exercise, is so important for bone health maintenance. Think jogging, Pilates, yoga, weights, hiking, and tennis. It has been proven that those who live a sedentary lifestyle have lower bone densities than those who exercise regularly.
Nutrition is important as well – foods rich in calcium, vitamin K, magnesium or potassium include dairy products, greens, spinach, kale, cashews, almonds, cacao, lima beans, sweet potato, berries, and papaya. And a good dose of Vitamin D can decrease the risk of bone fractures and disease – moderate exposure to sunlight each week will boost those vitamin D levels. Avoiding carbonated drinks, caffeine, alcohol and smoking is indicated too as they all interfere with bone health.
Puraty Strong Bones Tea is a calcium rich brew which supports good bone density and gives protection from osteoporosis. If you are finding that you are getting minor fractures, and breaks are taking too long to heal, this tea may be for you. It is also perfect for those suffering from sore joints.
And for younger people with bone fractures it is an ideal convalescent tea. If you want to strengthen your bones, increase bone density and prevent osteoporosis then this formulation is for you. I would also suggest that sports people would benefit from the strengthening properties of Strong Bones Tea.
The healing herbs in Strong Bones Tea have been carefully formulated to combine and provide iron (Alfalfa), silica (Horsetail), calcium (Nettle), vital minerals (Oat straw) and key vitamins (Parsley Leaf) which all play a role in strengthening bones.
Alfalfa Leaf (Medicago sativa) is considered the father of plants because it is rich in vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that play a vital role in the strength and growth of our bones and in the maintenance of a healthy body.
Horsetail Cut (Equisetum arvense) Horsetail (Equisetum arvense) has traditionally been used as a diuretic (helps rid the body of excess fluid by increasing urine output).
Nettle Root (Urtica dioica herba) aids the kidneys in the excretion of uric acid and other wastes. Nettle is high in minerals, vitamins and enzymes which help to re-mineralise wasted cartilage and connective tissue damaged from arthritis.
Oat Straw (Avena sativa) is high in calcium, minerals, protein, some vitamin B, and silica, a mineral that is largely responsible for healthy skin, hair, nails and bones.
Parsley Leaf (Petroselinum crispum) is rich in many vital vitamins, including Vitamin C, B12, K and A. This means parsley keeps your immune system strong, tones your bones and heals the nervous system.