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May 06, 2005
Cheers to Moms on Mother's Day!
Attention all moms! Take charge of your health.
Seeking just the right present for mom on Mother's Day? How about a long, happy and healthy life as a mother, grandmother … or great-grandmother?
Here are the top nutrition concerns for women in their “mom years�:
Low intake of omega-3 fatty acids. There is evidence that omega-3s can help prevent stroke, blocked blood vessels and coronary heart disease. Omega-3s are found especially in higher-fat seafood such as salmon and albacore tuna and soybean and canola oils.
Low consumption of folate. Especially for women in their child-bearing years, folate can prevent birth defects and improve brain function. And as you age, folic acid can decrease the risk of coronary heart disease. Good sources include spinach, navy beans, strawberries, oranges, peanuts and fortified grains like cereals and pasta.
Low calcium intake. This can result in osteoporosis and bone fractures. Good sources include milk, yogurt, tofu, cheese, salmon (canned with edible bones), turnip greens, cottage cheese, broccoli and fortified cereals and juices.
Lack of fiber, which may be related to colorectal and other types of cancers, heart disease and constipation. For fiber, turn to apples or pears (with skin), bananas, dried figs, oranges, kidney beans, lentils, brown rice, whole-wheat pasta and bread, bran cereals and nuts.
Low intake of vitamin B12. B12 works with folic acid to keep homocysteine levels low, decreasing the risk of heart disease. Good sources are lean meats, poultry, seafood, yogurt, milk and eggs.
Lack of vitamin D. This can limit your body's ability to absorb calcium and can lead to bone loss. Good sources of vitamin D are milk, fortified cereals, eggs and salmon.
Help your mom take steps now to make healthful eating choices that are right for her at any stage of her life.
Produced by ADA’s Public Relations Team
Posted by Lisa at May 6, 2005 12:26 PM
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