Combating Disease Through Diet

It has long been determined that diet and the foods you eat play a large role in influencing your health and well-being. The AARP has provided a list of certain foods and dietary nutrients that combat specific health disorders.

Calcium and Bone Diseases

According to AARP, osteoporosis is a disease that occurs when the calcium content in your bones is very low. Low calcium causes stiff, brittle and fragile bones which are easily fractured or broken. Implementing daily doses of calcium into your diet is essential, particularly for older individuals. Getting the proper amount of calcium can help you maintain healthy bones and teeth. The best food sources for calcium come from dairy and milk products. Calcium can also be found in a variety of fruits and vegetables. Calcium supplements are also available if you’re not getting the proper amount from the foods you eat. Check with your doctor regarding the recommended daily allowance of calcium based upon your age, gender and hormonal factors.

Fiber and Colon Cancer

AARP states that getting enough fiber in your diet is essential, and is particularly effective in lowering your risk of cancer of the rectum and colon. Good sources of fiber include foods such as oat bran, nuts, seeds, dried beans, lentils, peas, and various types of fruits and vegetables. In addition to being a good source of fiber, eating more fruits and vegetables help provide your body with vitamin A, C, beta carotene, and valuable substances known as phytochemicals. Citrus fruits high in vitamin C and antioxidants such as oranges, grapefruits and tangerines also help in lowering your cancer risk. Implementing these foods into your diet can help to reduce the risk of a variety of cancers such as cancers of the stomach, esophagus, larynx and lung.

Fiber, Fat and Heart Disease

Fiber in your diet can be extremely effective in lowering your risk of coronary heart disease. Other ways to lower your risk of heart disease through diet is to eliminate saturated fats from your diet. Too much fat in your blood causes cholesterol build-up in the arteries, narrowing the arteries and causing strain on your heart. Additionally, limiting the amount of fat in your diet will help keep your weight down.

Salt and High Blood Pressure

Finally, AARP recommends lowering sodium and salt content in your diet. Sodium is an essential mineral, and is needed for maintaining proper cell function. However, too much sodium can contribute to hypertension or high blood pressure. The American Heart Association has specific guidelines for proper amounts of sodium in the diet. You can find dietary ways to control high blood pressure or lower your risk of getting hypertension. Avoid foods that contain excess salt and nitrates such as bacon, ham, hot dogs, or processed luncheon meats that are smoked or cured.