“Osteoporosis Proof” Your Bones with a Breakfast Staple
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted May 6, 2024
Everything from ad campaigns to our doctors’ praise has given milk an unbeatable bone-building halo.
For years, it’s been drummed into us. Milk is the ultimate key to strong bones.
But IS dairy as good as it gets when it comes to protecting our bones?
Don’t get me wrong—I AM a fat of full-fat dairy. (Want to know more? I tackle the low-fat dairy myth HERE.)
But new research suggests ANOTHER barnyard item might be a better way to shield against osteoporosis.
It turns out eggs might be the unsung hero in the fight for stronger bones.
A recent study published in the journal Food and Function uncovered a link between eggs and significantly improved bone mineral density, indicating a lower risk of osteoporosis.
The analysis revealed that participants who ate at least 3.53 ounces of whole eggs daily (about two large eggs) had significantly higher bone mineral density levels in their femurs and spines than those who ate less.
Osteoporosis is a widespread condition affecting the bones of millions. In the United States alone, an estimated 10 million have the bone-destroying disease. Another 44 million have low bone mass and are at an increased risk of developing the condition.
Women are more susceptible to the bone thief than men, with approximately one in two women over 50 expected to experience an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime.
For men, the risk is lower but still significant, with one in four over 50 likely to experience an osteoporosis-related fracture.
Given how common osteoporosis is and how it robs folks of their quality of life, eating eggs is a simple and effective way to PROMOTE bone health that could be a game changer.
Protein-rich eggs (around 6 grams each) have long been a breakfast favorite. But with only about 24 milligrams of calcium, a mere two percent of the recommended daily intake for adults, they’ve never been linked to bone health before.
So, how DO they contribute to better bones?
The answer lies in a group of enzymes called alkaline phosphatase (ALP). According to the study, eggs activate these enzymes, leading to stronger bones.
Sufficient ALP levels allow more efficient mineralization and hardening of the bones. But without enough ALP, bones can become softer, weaker, and more prone to fractures and breaks.
Higher ALP levels are associated with greater bone mineral density and content. While low levels can contribute to osteoporosis.
We’ve all been conditioned to believe that milk is the ultimate bone-strengthening food in the barnyard, but the secret to better bone health might have been hiding in our egg cartons all along.
Eating more eggs is a simple, effective, and DELICIOUS way to show your bones some extra love.
P.S. Start with eggs, but don’t stop there. Check out the odd belly secret behind STRONGER bones.
Source:
Da Shi, et al., Whole egg consumption in relation to bone health of the US population: a cross-sectional study, Food Funct., 2024,15, 1369-1378, DOI: [doi. org /10. 1039/D3FO04248K]
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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