1. Steroid medications  can increase osteoporosis risk, so sufficient calcium, vitamin D, magnesium and vitamin K are needed for bone health and long-term steroid use also can cause deficiencies in vitamin C, vitamin B12, folic acid, zinc and selenium (Zidbeh. 2017). What are some appropriate food sources that will help prevent those deficiencies? 2.  This discussion has focused upon foodborne diseases.  Let’s change direction for a moment.  How are microbes used positively in the food industry?  Please give some examples.  Explain.

1. Steroid medications can indeed increase the risk of osteoporosis and cause deficiencies in various vitamins and minerals. Adequate intake of calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, and vitamin K is crucial for maintaining bone health and preventing osteoporosis in individuals on long-term steroid use (Zidbeh, 2017). Additionally, deficiencies in vitamin C, vitamin B12, folic acid, zinc, and selenium can also occur. To help prevent these deficiencies, the following food sources can be incorporated into the diet:

– Calcium: Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt are excellent sources of calcium. Other options include fortified plant-based milk, calcium-fortified tofu, and leafy green vegetables like kale and broccoli.
– Vitamin D: Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel are rich sources of vitamin D. Additionally, fortified dairy or plant-based milk, egg yolks, and sunlight exposure can also contribute to vitamin D intake.
– Magnesium: Foods high in magnesium include nuts and seeds (such as almonds and pumpkin seeds), whole grains, legumes, dark leafy greens, and avocados.
– Vitamin K: Leafy green vegetables, such as spinach, kale, and collard greens, are excellent sources of vitamin K. Other options include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and fermented foods like sauerkraut and natto.
– Vitamin C: Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruits), strawberries, kiwi, and bell peppers are rich in vitamin C. Other options include tomatoes, leafy green vegetables, and berries.
– Vitamin B12: Animal products like meat, poultry, fish, dairy, and eggs are the primary sources of vitamin B12. Vegans and vegetarians may need to supplement or consume fortified foods like plant-based milk, breakfast cereals, and nutritional yeast.
– Folic acid: Foods high in folic acid include leafy green vegetables, legumes, fortified grains, eggs, and citrus fruits.
– Zinc: Oysters, beef, chicken, pork, nuts, seeds, and legumes (such as chickpeas and lentils) are rich in zinc.
– Selenium: Brazil nuts are an excellent source of selenium. Other options include seafood, organ meats, beef, poultry, and eggs.

It is important to note that individual dietary needs may vary, and consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian is recommended for personalized advice.

2. Although this discussion has primarily focused on foodborne diseases, it is important to acknowledge the positive role that microbes play in the food industry. Microbes, such as bacteria and yeasts, are intentionally used in various food processes to enhance the flavor, texture, and safety of foods. Here are a few examples:

– Fermentation: Fermented foods, such as yogurt, cheese, sauerkraut, kimchi, and sourdough bread, are created through the action of beneficial microbes. These microbes break down carbohydrates and produce acids, alcohols, and other compounds, resulting in the unique flavors and textures associated with fermented foods. Fermentation also helps preserve food by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria.
– Brewing and Distilling: Yeast is a crucial microorganism used in the production of alcoholic beverages like beer, wine, and spirits. Yeast converts sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide through the process of fermentation. Different strains of yeast are used to yield specific flavors and alcohol content in these beverages.
– Cheese Production: The production of cheese involves the use of specific bacteria and molds. These microorganisms aid in the fermentation process, converting lactose (milk sugar) into lactic acid, which gives cheese its characteristic tang and texture. Additionally, molds like Penicillium are responsible for the blue veins found in blue cheeses.
– Probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that promote gut health when consumed. They are found in certain types of fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and kombucha. These live microbes can help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria and support digestion and immune function.

In the food industry, microbes are carefully selected, controlled, and monitored to ensure safety and quality in food production processes. The use of beneficial microbes contributes to the diversity of flavors, textures, and nutritional benefits of various food products.