For Smarter Nutrition (07)

Preventing Colon Cancer: Calcium May Help
This 2004 article says that a renowned researcher estimates that 70 percent of colon cancers could be prevented with just moderate changes in diet and lifestyle. One prime suspect now is insulin resistance. In this condition, higher levels of insulin circulate because the body is less responsive to it. Insulin and related growth factors seem to change cell processes in ways that promote the development of cancer. The article also says that consuming enough calcium is the latest approach to lower the risk of colon cancer. It cites a recent study looked at the recurrence of colon polyps, which are noncancerous growths that have the ability to turn into cancer. Polyp recurrence was 29 percent lower with a higher consumption of calcium and vitamin D, the article says.

O’Mama Organics
This site is from the Organic Trade Association, and is called the O’Mama Report, an online resource for women who want to make good decisions about organic eating, and other organic products. Women can share experiences and information. An organic baby food section is included, and also features information about organic cotton diapers. Also a section for organic-eating kids is also featured, which offers fun games for kids to learn about eating organic. Organic kitchen, gardening and home sections provide more information for women who want to keep their homes organic.

Calcium Supplements: Should You Take One?
Do you need to take a calcium supplement to make sure that you’re getting enough of this vital mineral on your diet? You probably don't need a general vitamin-mineral supplement if you are eating a reasonably varied diet most of the time, aren't restricting calories to lost weight, and generally don't skip meals, this article states, from the University of Rochester Health Promotion Office. Because many people do not get a lot of calcium, people should eat a good diet and try a supplement. Calcium supplements are better absorbed from the intestine in the presence of lactose (the sugar of milk) and protein, the article says. Taking the calcium supplement with a glass of milk is ideal to get the max amount of calcium. After calcium is absorbed into your bloodstream, your bones will take up the calcium better in the presence of vitamin D.

Nutrition to Prevent Osteoporosis
There are foods you can eat, besides milk and calcium supplements, which will help you, prevent and treat osteoporosis. The site says that dairy products, such as milk, cheese, yogurt and ice cream are great calcium sources; along with dark leafy vegetables such as spinach, collard greens bok choy and broccoli; almonds, fish and calcium-fortified foods such as orange juice, cereal, breads, soy and tofu. It delves more into the importance of vitamins and minerals, with a background into what these vitamins and minerals do to fight osteoporosis.

New York’s Online Access to Health and Nutrition Information
Read up on the latest advancements in disease and condition treatment, and learn about procedures. The site also features local health resources, such as hospitals and clinics. Topics include cancer, dental care, environmental health, genetic disorders, heart and blood, brain and nervous system, diabetes, thyroid disorders, mental health, pregnancy, infections, AIDS, kidneys and liver, sleep disorders, stomach and intestinal problems and more.