To the Editor:
Thanks for reminding people about National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month (“Health roundup, school exams, blood pressure awareness and ‘No Tobacco Day,’” May 28). I urge readers to eat plenty of calcium-rich vegan foods, including broccoli, almonds, leafy greens, beans, tofu, oats and fortified soy milk and orange juice, every month, not just in May. Many fruits and vegetables help stave off osteoporosis because they not only contain calcium, but also because they’re rich in magnesium, potassium, vitamin K and other nutrients needed for healthy bones.
Osteoporosis isn’t caused by inadequate calcium intake but rather by rapid calcium loss. Animal protein, salt, and to some extent, caffeine, leech calcium from the bones, causing bone deterioration. Vitamin D also helps the human body absorb and retain calcium. We produce the vitamin when we get adequate sunlight, although it’s wise to take a supplement if you don’t get much sun. You can also get Vitamin D, without all the saturated fat and cholesterol found in dairy, from fortified soy milk, orange juice, and cereals. Readers can get a free vegan starter kit from PETA.org.
Sincerely,
Heather Moore
Vegan Living Specialist
The PETA Foundation
Norfolk, Virginia
