Author Question: What aspects of the information on food labels are the most relevant to consumers who want to ... (Read 74 times)

tiffannnnyyyyyy · **on:** Aug 20, 2018

What aspects of the information on food labels are the most relevant to consumers who want to identify foods that contribute to bone health?

Question 2

What nutrients are essential for optimum bone health? And thus, what foods need to be included in the diet?

InfiniteSteez · **Reply #1 on:** Aug 20, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Utilizing the Nutrition Facts label to compare the calcium and protein content of foods would be beneficial to identifying significant food sources of both nutrients, which are critical to bone health. Both the calcium and protein content of foods are required components of food labeling. Foods can also include an FDA-approved health claim when appropriate. Health claims help consumers readily identify good sources of nutrients in food. A specific health claim for calcium approved by the FDA that can be found on packaging is as follows:
Regular exercise and a healthy diet with enough calcium helps teens and young women maintain good bone health and may reduce their high risk of osteoporosis later in life..

Answer to Question 2

The DRIs for many nutrients for bone health have been set at levels to promote healthy bone growth early in life and minimize bone loss later in life. Nutrients include: calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, vitamin D, vitamin C, vitamin K, and protein. To reach goals for calcium, vitamin D, and protein, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and accompanying MyPlate food guidance system recommend consuming 2-3 cups of milk or equivalent dairy daily. To obtain enough vitamin C, consume 1-4 cups of vegetables and 1-2 cups of fruit each day. Fish and dark green, leafy vegetables provide the highest amounts of vitamin K. Foods rich in magnesium include seafood, legumes, nuts, and unprocessed brown rice. Phosphorus is found in almost all foods, especially foods containing protein.