Get acquainted with osteoporosis—how to prevent it, how to treat it, and how to know if you have it.
What is it?
Osteoporosis is a medical condition that affects the bones. Sufferer’s bones become weak and brittle and break easily. It’s caused by a loss of tissue and the condition has been linked to hormonal changes, calcium deficiency, and inadequate vitamin D levels.
Who is at risk?
Anyone can get osteoporosis, but the typical patient fits a profile. Women are four times more likely to develop osteoporosis than men. The reason why is linked to the hormonal changes that often contribute to tissue loss as well as the fact that women’s bones are thinner to begin with and they statistically live longer than men. Women over the age of 50 are at an increased risk.
What are the symptoms?
Bone loss isn’t something people feel so the first sign of osteoporosis is often a fracture. Doctors may scan for osteoporosis if the patient experienced a break after only mild to moderate impact, or if they reach the profile described above. Many women who have osteoporosis will experience a loss of height or adopt a stooped posture. Back pain can occur as a result of a fracture or a slipped vertebrae caused by bone loss. A bone density scan will be used to provide a diagnosis.
How is it treated?
There is no cure for osteoporosis but a mix of lifestyle changes and medication can prevent, slow, or stop its progress. Those who receive an osteoporosis diagnosis will most likely be told to take dietary supplements, antacids, and, in some cases, hormones. Maintaining a healthy diet and physical exercise will also help.
The Bone Health Diet
To prevent or slow the progress of osteoporosis, commit to a bone health diet. The National Osteoporosis Foundation calls out certain foods known for strengthening bones. The list includes dairy products fortified with vitamin D, fish (such as salmon, sardines, tuna, and mackerel), plenty of fruits and vegetables, namely dark, leafy greens, and other foods fortified with calcium and vitamin D.
In most cases calcium and vitamin D are the two nutrients those worried about developing osteoporosis want to keep up. Vitamins K and C as well as potassium (present in tomato products, raisins, potatoes, spinach, sweet potatoes, papaya, oranges, bananas, plantains, and prunes) are also important.