Calcium

It is estimated that by the year 2020, half of all Americans over the age of 50 will be at risk for fractures from osteoporosis (low bone mass). One of the key strategies for reducing the likelihood of developing low bone mass is to consume adequate calcium. Of course, it is also very important that the calcium consumed is absorbed. Researchers at Purdue University showed that honey enhanced calcium uptake in laboratory animals. In fact, they found that the absorption of calcium was increased as the amount of honey increased. Although this data would need to be confirmed using human subjects, the preliminary findings are very compelling. Maybe you'd like to get your calcium through a fruit smoothie made with milk rather than by taking a calcuim pill. The following recipe is easy to make and of course, delicious!


Fruit Honey Smoothie
1 c frozen strawberries
1 banana
1/3 c honey
1 c skim or nonfat milk
1/2 c plain or vanilla low-fat yogurt

In a blender, combine all ingredients; process until smooth. Makes 2 large servings.
Calories 332, Protein 9, carbs 76, fat 2, calcium 281, sodium, 110, potassium

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BEE  FACTS

Because of the multitude of floral sources from which honey originates, no two honeys are exactly alike in flavor, color and nutritional content. Honey is produced in every state. Leading honey producing states are California, Florida, Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. Honey bees must visit about 2 million flowers to make just one pound of honey. Common honey varieties in the United States include alfalfa, buckwheat, clover, orange blossom and sage. In her lifetime, a worker bee will make just 1/12th of a teaspoon of honey.