I’m continuing my series about how supporting your bones helps to build overall health. For one example, simply do any daily activity that involves your muscles. For another, look in the mirror and smile! Here are more details about both:
I believe the way bones grow and decline in strength together is one of the most useful findings in bone health research — and one of our most overlooked opportunities. I’ve shared with you that exercise studies show that women in early post-menopause can not only maintain, but gain an average of 1.5% in bone mineral density in as little as nine months with rigorous strength-training regimes — a far cry from the 2% of lost bone that might otherwise occur.
Many women find that adding variety to exercise also adds enjoyment and the power to stick with their routine. And, scientific evidence suggests we most efficiently build bone mass with a combination of high-impact exercise and weight-lifting. We also know that non-weight-bearing or resistance exercise such as swimming, biking, and isometric exercise all have value, in that they can increase your bones’ flexibility and compression strength. For more information, see my article on exercise.
Smiles originated some 30 million years ago and can tell us a lot about our bone health and overall health. Here are just a few reasons why:
• Receding gums are often an early sign of body-wide bone loss.A comprehensive natural program to build bone will not only directly benefit your jawbone, but will also dramatically improve the health of your teeth and gums — and, in turn, lower your risk of long-term heart and lung disorders.
Stay tuned next week, when I’ll share two more reasons how supporting your bones brings added benefits you can’t ignore.