Osteoporosis is a condition where the bones become very weak and are highly prone to fractures. Though it is also a condition that men face, it is mostly observed in women after 35 and is evident after menopause. Common areas of fracture are the spine, hips, ribs, and wrists. Bones can easily crack and break due to very minor injuries. There are no symptoms as such to the condition until injuries occur.
Causes And Risk Factors
Unlike bones in normal people that grow and change throughout life, in people with Osteoporosis thinning of bones is observed and they become brittle and porous. However, the main causes and risk factors are:
- Lack of calcium
- Hormone imbalance
- Low estrogen in women
- Low testosterone in men
- Lack of vitamin D
- Smoking
- Thyroid condition
- Alcohol consumption
Treatment For Osteoporosis
Although it is not possible to completely eradicate the condition, few treatments, drugs, and exercise. Early diagnosis is important as there are not many symptoms of the condition.
Bisphosphonates: They are given as tablets or injections, to slow down and reduce risks of fractures by increasing bone density.
Selective estrogen receptive modules: They maintain bone density and reduce risks of fractures. It is taken in a form of medicine.
Parathyroid hormone: this hormone helps in creating new bones by stimulating the cells.
Calcium and vitamin D supplements: 700 mg of calcium intake per day will is important for maintaining healthy bones. Vitamin D is important because it helps to absorb calcium. Supplements for calcium and vitamin D are essential for people suffering from osteoporosis.
Hormone replacement therapy: this treatment is mainly recommended for women in the stage of menopause. It increases bone density.
Testosterone treatment: when osteoporosis in men is caused by insufficient production of male sex hormones, this treatment is very helpful.
Other than drugs and treatment, diet and exercise under the supervision and recommendation of doctors are also very essential.
Diet For Osteoporosis
Consuming certain foods that contain calcium, minerals and more that help in boosting bone health, have to be included in the diet if suffering from osteoporosis.
Calcium-based foods: Broccoli, eggs, baked beans, tuna, tofu etc are filled with calcium.
Dairy products: Milk, yogurt, cheese and other dairy products contain calcium, magnesium and are important for bones.
Meat and fish: meat is high in protein and hence is important for bone health. Fish like salmon are also helpful for the condition.
Green leafy vegetables: Leafy vegetables are rich in vitamin K and calcium which are much needed for the bones.
Sea vegetables: Agar, Nori, wakame etc are rich in critical minerals that help in bone formation.
Nuts and enriched foods: Cereals, bread and nuts like almonds that have calcium added to them can be consumed.
Other than including these in the diet, it is also important to know what to avoid. Few important foods to avoid are salty foods, Alcohol, Caffeine, high sodium foods and sugary snacks.
Though Osteoporosis cannot be completely reversed, being aware of the treatments and diets will help reduce the risk of fractures. Exercise will also help in increasing bone strength. Most importantly early diagnosis is essential so that damage can be prevented.
