Moooo-ve over Asthma: Obstacles

Last week, I was discussing nutrition with a new friend as were canoeing down the Harpeth River. We discussed our health benefits from avoiding cow's milk, specifically regarding seasonal allergies and asthma. The controversial process of avoiding cow's milk has created unease about the possibility of being deficit in calcium and protein. Let's talk about it!

The first obstacle: Calcium. I want to emphasize that calcium is an important part of our daily diet. But with everything else, it's good to question teachings from your upbringing. These days with growing research, there is a debate whether or not calcium (from food or pills) promotes or represses the osteoblast. An osteoblast is a cell that is responsible for the synthesis and mineralization of bone formation. Some researchers are curious about the prevalence of osteoporosis in high-calcium consuming populations. But, these areas are prone to having high-protein diets too that can cause calcium to be excreted more readily.

So, it comes down to this... there are many things you need to be doing to grow and maintain healthy bones. Out of all of these, I want to mention something possibly new! Silica. Have you ever heard of it? Honestly, I hadn't. Some people believe it's the most important mineral for increasing bone density. Please read this piece called "Silica: The Forgotten Nutrient". Click here. It goes into really cool detail about how silica is great for bone healing. Of course, always talk to your doctor before taking any supplement or herb.

The second obstacle: Protein. My health coach helped me with protein supplementation and balancing my blood sugar. Her advice was to incorporate various other sources, one being chia seeds. Chia seeds are a good source of fiber, omega-3 fats, protein, vitamins, and minerals. I love to add them to different things, especially blueberry muffins. Yum! I read an article about a guy who consumed a tablespoon of chia seeds and needed medical attention after drinking water. Not yum.... don't do that! Chia seeds create a capsule when liquid is added. Know the properties of what you are consuming. And, use your noggin!

So, there are good points on both sides. To consume or not consume? Do what's best for your body!

Here's another great article from NBC News called "Calcium From Supplements or Dairy Doesn't Strengthen Bones, Study Finds". Click here.

Stay tuned next week to see why people are still deciding to avoid cow's milk despite these obstacles. Follow my journey and see how it affected my asthma!