In an effort continuously dispel some of the myths that are out there concerning the overall health of those who adhere to a plant-based regimen, the Natures First Path team wanted to take the time to address this issue concerning Calcium in the plant-based diet.
Recently the writer just so happened to be scanning one commercial by the Milk Industry that was a comeback “diss” type of commercial attempting to discredit the Non-Dairy Milk industry; since “Silk” had put out a commercial of their own promoting the good benefits of consuming Soy as an alternative to Cow’s Milk (*if one does not have any allergic reactions to soy). “How interesting”… the writer thought. Is the dairy industry that nervous about the fact that people may be on to their tactics and cover-ups concerning its present day health effects and carcinogen findings though out the world? Whatever the motivation and present issue is regarding this, many people incorrectly assume that those who consume a plant based diet are lacking in calcium and their bones are about to collapse right under them! These stereotypes are unfortunately a result of long promoted myths that state that only calcium from Cows is the most beneficial and worthy of ingestion. This however is not the only way that people can get healthy amounts of calcium and proteins.
Plant based adherents gain their calcium from an array of choices and not just one; as in the case of those who only think that one can get it from Cows milk. Here is a list of the most common and nutrient rich sources of calcium from plant based sources:
Broccoli, Tahini, Soybeans,Tempeh, Black Strap Molasses, Collard Greens, Okra, Almonds, Almond Butter, Navy Beans, Plant Milks, Bok Choy, Chinese Cabbage, Tofu, Mustard Greens and the Holy Grail of all green plants….Kale which is also rich in Iron.
More and more, people are starting to take a serious look at what they are placing in their bodies and with this people are trying to add more and more plant based foods into their diets to feel better…even if they are not vegetarians or vegans. One of the good and promising things about consuming high intakes of fresh plant based food is the fact that when you make decision to try and eat plant based calcium (for example) you also get the other list of benefits that come along with it like the added vitamins and minerals, added iron, proper digestion and an over feeling of feeling better inside and out. When it comes to looking where to get all of our proper vitamins and minerals, we don’t have to look very far; it’s as close as your local garden or farmers market. All the best to your health.
– Dr. David Scott N.D.;CHNP.
NATURES' FIRST PATH: HOlISTIC MEDICINE. 