Osteoporosis is a progressive disease that causes bones to weaken, making them susceptible to fracture. Areas commonly affected are the spine, wrist and hips. Bone is strongest around age 30 and then begins to decline. If you have not retained sufficient bone mass, or if you lose it too quickly as you age, you are at increased risk of osteoporosis. A balanced diet helps maintain bone mass, accordingly a meal replacement diet, such as Medifast, should contain a balance of key nutrients.
Medifast Program
Medifast is a portion-controlled and clinically proven weight loss program. The standard plan consists of five Medifast meal replacements plus one meal containing lean protein and vegetables each day. All meal products are low-fat, high protein and fortified with vitamins and minerals. The idea is that by following a very low-calorie diet along with a high proportion of protein, the body will lose weight rapidly by utilizing its fat stores while still protecting muscle tissue.
Benefits
The main protein source in Medifast meals is soy protein. A high soy diet has frequently been suggested as a way to prevent bone loss associated with aging. This is because soybeans are rich in plant estrogens called isoflavones. A 2006 study published in the ''European Journal of Nutrition'' concluded that soy isoflavones can significantly reduce bone loss. However, more research is needed before a conclusion can be made.
Protein And Bone Loss
Protein is essential for good health and is needed for fracture healing. Some research has indicated that consuming large amounts may actually increase bone loss. According to the National Institute of Health, excess protein increases the amount of calcium excreted in urine. Calcium plays a vital role in helping to maintain bone mass. However, these are relatively small losses that can be offset by getting adequate calcium in the diet. According to Medifast.com the quantities of calcium in Medifast meals are within the recommended range for adults.
Considerations
Regular exercise, particularly weight bearing is important for maintaining bone. A 2005 study published in the ''British Journal of Sports Medicine'' indicates that regular exercise is beneficial for maintaining bone mass. However, the Medifast program recommends temporarily cutting back on exercise to allow the body to adjust to the new diet. This reduction in activity along with weight loss may increase bone loss in some individuals. However, the program suggests increasing physical activity again gradually, so any associated bone loss is minimal.
References
- Medifast: Product & Plan FAQS
- PubMed: Soy Isoflavones Attenuate Bone Loss in Early Postmenopausal Chinese women : A Single-Blind Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial: European Journal of Nutrition
- MayoClinic.com: Soy
- NIH Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases: Other Nutrients and Bone Health At A Glance
- ''British Journal of Sports Medicine''; Effects of Weight Bearing and Non Weight Bearing Exercises on Bone Properties Using Calcaneal Quantitative Ultrasound; P S Yung et al.; Novemeber 2004
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing''; Phyllis A.Balch, CNC.; 2010
