Published: May 13, 2008 11:13 am         

Program to plant seeds to good bone health

GOSHEN, Ind — While a glass of milk may do the body good, the essential calcium used by the body every day can be found in more than just dairy products — and could very easily be growing in your own backyard.

“Vegetables like broccoli, brussels sprouts and turnip greens are filled with calcium to help women achieve good bone health,” said Laurie Busby, executive director of The Retreat Women’s Health Center. “Without enough calcium in our diet, our bodies will borrow calcium from our bones. Over the long run this can deplete bone strength and lead to osteoporosis. We want women to see there are many ways to have a calcium-rich diet.”

The Retreat Women’s Health Center is inviting women to take charge of their own health by learning to “Plant Seeds to Good Bone Health” at the Saturday Morning Retreat from 9 to 11:30 at The Retreat Women’s Health Center, 1135 Professional Drive, Goshen.

Radiologist Dr. Michael Brendle will discuss osteoporosis, a disease in which bones become more fragile and more likely to break, and bone densitometry, the measuring of bone loss at women’s main fracture points on the femur and spine.

During the event, The Retreat will offer heel scans so that participants can test their own bone density.

Recognizing that calcium can be found in many vegetables and that exercise is key to preventing osteoporosis, master gardener Kathleen Cripe will discuss gardening as a form of exercise and which plants can be grown locally that are both calcium-rich and great to eat.

“We want to give women the tools they need for both a successful garden and a healthy life,” Laurie Busby said. “Getting active and growing your own vegetables is a very empowering way to take charge of your own health — both through dietary and daily physical activity needs.”

To make a reservation for the Saturday Morning Retreat, call 537-5000. A $5 donation is requested for Saturday Morning Retreats to support screening mammograms for uninsured women in the community.