Why Calcium is Still Important

Posted by Dr. Jamie McManus on Dec 13, 2012 in Health, Natural Nutrition

All I can say is what a relief!

As anyone who reads this blog must know, I have long been a believer in getting plenty of calcium and the reasons why are clear to anyone who follows the news. The numbers are staggering: more than 200 million people worldwide have osteoporosis (10 million of those in the United States).

But osteoporosis itself is not the primary problem; the real harm comes from broken bones. It has been estimated that women over 50 years old have a 50% chance of fracture some time in their lives because of osteoporosis. Even men are not immune; they have a 25% chance of fracture. That accounts for over 5,000 bone breaks every day, or two million breaks a year because of osteoporosis in the United States.

Broken bones lead to broken lives. Elderly who suffer fractures have less mobility, less independence, may become bedridden, experience depression, and may even shorten your life.

So you can imagine my concern when two recent studies suggested that taking calcium supplements might be associated with an increase risk of heart attack. Our need for adequate calcium is obvious, but if taking it could hurt our hearts, is it worth it?

I was happy to learn that a panel of academic and industry experts convened to see if they could clear up this question. The panel included experts in the fields of cardiology, nutrition, bone health, and epidemiology. The panel collected and examined the available body of scientific literature, including randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on calcium supplementation and the relationship to heart health. Here is what panelist Dr. Robert Heaney, MD of Creighton University School of Medicine had to say after their review:

“There is a strong body of evidence from a variety of rigorous scientific studies reinforcing the benefits of calcium in promoting bone growth and maintenance. After reviewing the entire scope of scientific literature for calcium, we are now more confident than ever in both its health benefits and safety.”

The panel of experts has confirmed what I have been suggesting for a long time: most adults need around 1,000 milligrams of calcium in their diet daily (more if they are pregnant, lactating, or more than 50 years old). In my opinion you can continue to take your calcium supplements with the confidence that you are doing the best thing for your body and bones.

Make Wise Choices for Healthful Snacking

Posted by Dr. Jamie McManus on Aug 15, 2012 in Announcements, Healthy Weight, Natural Nutrition

It’s 3 pm. You’re hungry. And let’s face it, dinner seems like it’s a year away. You think twice before grabbing a snack because your trying hard to lose weight or you simply don’t want to “ruin your appetite” before dinner. Eventually hunger wins and you reach for some cookies or chips. Before you know it, you’ve devoured the entire box or bag!

Well it looks like you’re not alone.  American adults are snacking more than ever and based on the latest statistics I’ve read, snacking accounts for almost 1/4^th of our daily calorie intake.  And while it’s true that traditional snacks are usually high in salt, fat and sugar, healthful snacking is possible. That’s why I’m so excited to tell you about a new product we just introduced at our annual Global Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada.  Coming soon, we will have a brand new addition to our Cinch ® product line – Cinch® Snack Crisps. Baked to perfection, these crunchy, savory snack chips give a whole new meaning to healthy snacking! They come in two great flavors – sea salt and barbeque. They have 100 calories per serving, 7 grams of hunger fighting protein, 2 grams of fiber and contain no trans fats. They’re also gluten free and have a low glycemic index.  Finally, a healthy savory-type snack that not only tastes fabulous but is good for you and your entire family!

So remember to choose your snacks wisely. Think of them as mini-meals and fit them in to a healthy eating plan without over doing it on your daily calorie intake. Remember to snack only when you feel hungry not just because you’re bored or stressed. Watch your portion sizes. Avoid eating snacks directly from the big box or bag.  Have a single serving snack (like our Cinch Snack Crisps!) so you have more control over your calories. Another great strategy is to think ahead. Keep a variety of healthful snacks around at all times, that way when you do get hungry you won’t be tempted by the high salt, high fat, high sugar and snacks that may be lurking nearby.

Be Well!

HELPING OTHERS

I love helping others, but with that said I am not a very good "Care Giver".   My husband Art is a great "Care Giver".  He has taken care of me during all my cancer treatments and surgeries for the last nine years.  God knew what He was doing when He put Art in my life and I am very thankful.

My passion is helping others. If you are looking for something I will research it, if you need a job I will look at help wanted ads, if you need new flooring I will research and shop with you  I love decorating homes, shopping,  I love helping people find jobs, my son and his friends are always on my mind when I see help wanted signs.  

I would love to help you with your health or financial needs.  I have wanted to expand my business because I love helping others.  Just contact me and we can talk.