17
September
2020
|
13:47 PM
America/New_York

What to Eat — and Avoid — for Strong Bones if You Have Ankylosing Spondylitis

Everyday Health discusses the foods to eat and avoid to help people with Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) to optimize bone health, according to experts including HSS clinical nutritionist Deborah McInerney, MS, RD, CDN.

McInerney explained since people with AS have an elevated risk of osteoporosis, it’s worth brushing up or learning about those risks and what you can do to minimize them. According to McInerney, it’s important to maintain a healthy weight. “Keep your weight in a healthy range because if you are super underweight or super overweight, you have an increased risk for a fracture.”

McInerney suggested keeping a food log for a week to see if you’re hitting all the food groups and to identify your gaps. ChooseMyPlate.gov will also allow you to visualize what your meals should ideally be comprised of — mostly fresh fruits and vegetables with whole grains and lean protein. “It’s reminding people of all the food groups,” said McInerney. “One of the things that is not listed on there is processed food.” She added, “If you’re getting food in its natural form, you’re getting more of the nutrients you need. With any of these conditions [such as AS], people may focus on certain foods or a group of nutrients in search of a quick solution.”

McInerney advised to focus on the positive and what you can do, instead of what you can’t eat or drink. “The idea is moderation and variety in diet,” she said. “We’re not perfect; we try to hit all the food groups as best as we can.”

Read the full article at Everydayhealth.com.