The real secret to stronger bones!

New research suggests that these foods are better at preventing fractures than calcium!

1 Olive oil! According to two new studies, older women who eat a Mediterranean-style diet rich in extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) have significantly stronger bones in their spines and hips compared to other adults. Researchers theorize that oleuropein, an EVOO compound, helps prevent age-related bone loss by boosting production of the cells that build bone!

2 Beer! That’s not a typo: Recent research done at Britain’s Cambridge University reveals that beer significantly reduces a woman’s risk of osteoporosis. The reason? Beer is the single richest source of dietary silicon, a nutrient that encourages the growth of new bone. Plus, ethanol, found in the alcohol in beer, helps prevent bone loss. Beers made from malted barley and hops, such as pale ales, are richest in silicon.

3 Salmon! Older women who eat at least one to two servings of fatty fish a week have the lowest rate of hip fractures, reveals a new study. One reason? Salmon is chock-full of vitamin D, “a nutrient research-proven to build and maintain bone mass,” says anti-aging physician Al Sears, M.D. Yet an estimated 41% of us are deficient in D! Not a fish fan? Take a daily 1,000-IU dose of D-3 instead. 4 Prunes!

The dried plums that are known for improving regularity offer another great benefit: Extensive research shows they can reverse and prevent bone loss, especially in the most vulnerable women, those ages 65 to 80. The journal Osteoporosis International reports that you only need to eat five or six medium prunes a day to get enough of their bone-preserving nutrients, such as vitamin K, magnesium, potassium and boron.