THE COMMON TOUCH

July 28, 2010Read: Matthew 9 "She said to herself, "'If I can just touch the hem of his garment, I will be whole.'" --Matthew 9:21

If you've spent any time here on PrayFit, you've realized by now that we love America's pastime. We agree with Babe Ruth when he said, "Baseball is the greatest game God ever saw fit to let man invent."  And after watching some good ball this weekend, we found another reason to love it even more. Ever notice that the managers wear the same uniform as the players? Think about it. There's not another sport like it. Ever see a football coach with a helmet? Or a basketball coach wearing a tank-top and shorts? No, baseball is the only sport where its managers blend in with the team.

I think Jesus could relate, because he chose to relate. Rather than standout among us, he blended in with us. Though He created the universe, His appearance was universal. He became our up-close-and-personal savior. In order to reach us, He let us touch Him.

--J.P.

NO BONES ABOUT IT

According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, food remains the best source of calcium. Dairy products are high in calcium, while certain green vegetables and other foods contain calcium in smaller amounts.

For people who have trouble digesting dairy products because of lactose intolerance, lactose free dairy products and lactase enzyme pills are also available.

Calcium-fortified foods and calcium supplements are helpful for people who are unable to get enough calcium in their diets. Some juices, breakfast foods, soymilk, cereals, snacks, breads and bottled water have calcium that has been added. If you drink soymilk that is fortified with calcium, be sure to shake the container well, as calcium can settle to the bottom.

Daily Calcium Recommendations: >> Adults under age 50 need 1,000 mg of calcium and 400-800 IU of vitamin D daily. >> Adults 50 and over need 1,200 mg of calcium and 800-1,000 IU of vitamin D daily.

People who get the recommended amount of calcium from foods do not need to take a calcium supplement. These individuals, however, still may need to take a vitamin D supplement. Getting too much calcium may increase the chance of developing kidney stones in some people. According to most experts, the safe upper limit for total daily calcium intake from all sources is 2,000 - 2,500 mg. Need a gauge? One cup of whole milk contains 276 mg of the bone-building stuff.

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