11/15/2007
As you prepare that wonderful Thansgiving dinner this year, don’t forget to include some of the colors of fall. The bright orange color of pumpkin, sweet potato and winter squash is a sign that these foods contain high levels of beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A and a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory substance. Studies have indicated that persons eating a diet rich in beta-carotene have a reduced risk of heart disease, some cancers and degenerative diseases such as arthritis. So be sure to make the table colorful, to compliment the turkey.
You’ve probably been told you need to drink more milk or take a calcium supplement. So what is the recommended daily dose? Well, it depends on your age. But women 19-50 should consume around 1,000 milligrams a day. Women over 50 should increase that to 1,200 milligrams a day. And keep in mind that Calcium should always be taken with vitamin D, because vitamin D is necessary for the body to absorb calcium.
For more health news or to find a physician, call St. John’s Referral One at 625-2000 or log onto stj.com.
