Do you hear your bones squeak? Do you feel pain in the back or feel that you have lost some height? These can indeed be the symptoms of osteoporosis! This article will help you know all that you should about osteoporosis, but first, we’ll have a look at what this disease is and how it is caused.

Osteoporosis causes porous bones and it is a condition in which bones become so weak and fragile that they are always at a risk of a fracture. This is due to the fact that the density and quality of bone are reduced. Sometimes, the disease gets to a point that even coughing can cause a fracture or bent.

Subsequently, the disease restricts movement or daily activities of a person suffering from it. The squeaking of the bones is painful and can turn out to be a cause of depression in most people. This is because you are unable to do things that you previously could. The negative thoughts and stress in such circumstances may increase with the passage of time.

How or What Causes Osteoporosis?

When you are young, old bones are constantly replaced by new and healthier ones. But this process is slowed when you enter your 20s. It gradually becomes slower when you reach the age of 50 and above. That is why it is advised to consume a lot of calcium and vitamins during the teenage and early 20s. You would like to order curcumin online if you want to notice a significant difference in your overall health.

The major cause of osteoporosis is the lack of a hormone called estrogen in women and androgen in men. Other causes include deficiency of Vitamin D and calcium, use of certain medicines, bone cancer, genetic disorders and overuse of a drug known as a corticosteroid. A recent study has linked weakened bones with pollution, so it is imperative to adopt relevant measures.

How Common Is Osteoporosis? 

Osteoporosis has become a very common disease and exists in women more than in men. It is estimated that the disease has affected 200 million women on a global level, which is a large number. In particular, women over the age of 50 are advised to be careful of developing the disease.

What’s the Cure?

There is no known cure for osteoporosis. But there are ways one can prevent it from happening, and there are treatments available once it is diagnosed. Once that is done, you can practice some of the precautions that can reduce the risk of fractures. Some of those preventions are:

Medication: An expert orthopedic can prescribe medicines once the disease is diagnosed. These slow down the process of the breakdown of bones. Some medicines function as alternatives to estrogen. But remember that all medicines have side effects. Therefore, it is always advisable to consult a good orthopedic expert before taking any medicine and proceed with caution.

Diet: Medication is not the only method that could solve all the problems associated with osteoporosis. Diet is also an important factor in this regard. As the famous saying goes, “you are what you eat”, you should always take a proper diet to prevent or treat osteoporosis. Eating plenty of food rich in calcium can also help to counter the disease. Further, drinking milk and yogurt in your meals will help you consume the right amount of calcium.

Other such foods include broccoli, cauliflower, tofu, salmon fish and green vegetables. Vitamin D is especially important in this regard because it absorbs calcium and takes it to the bones. Though foods like fish, beef, and cheese and egg yolk have Vitamin D, it is also a good idea to have its supplements. The other highest resource of the vitamin is sunlight, so make sure that you are receiving plenty of it.

Vitamin A: Consider limiting the use of vitamin A, as it has an element known as Retinol. Increased use of retinol can decrease bone density and increase the risk of fractures. According to an estimate, the right daily intake of this vitamin is 900 and 700 micrograms (mcg) for men and women, respectively.

Soda Intake: Drink as less soda as possible, as most of these carbonated drinks have so much phosphorus that they keep calcium away from absorbing into the body, which may lead to fragile bones, and ultimately, bone loss.

Healthy Lifestyle: If you are under 50 or younger, it is not too late to start taking care of your bones. Ensure that you take a proper diet packed with calcium and Vitamin D. One of the ways to do this is to drink milk and include it in your daily food routine. Additional supplements can be taken in case of a deficiency. Moreover, exercising regularly is bound to benefit you. These tips will help make sure that the quality of bone is not affected at any age. It is also important to manage and maintain your estrogen or androgen levels at all times and get them checked regularly.

Tobacco Intake: If you are adamant at fighting back osteoporosis, you have to decide to give up tobacco smoking. The primary reason for this is that smoking speeds up bone loss. Studies have shown an inverse relationship between smoking and bone density. The use of tobacco decreases bone density and increases the risk of fractures.

Exercise: Physical activities are very important, as it keeps us in shape, and healthy and fit, and it has also proven to be effective for the patients of osteoporosis. Two areas of exercise that you should undertake if you are suffering from the disease, are those that relate to muscle strengthening and weight-bearing. These may include squats, biceps, curls, shoulder lifts, and foot stomps, brisk walking, climbing stairs, aerobics, and playing tennis or even dancing. Avoid exercises that involve running, jumping or other high impact movements because they increase the risk of fractures.

Alcohol: Alcohol has many side effects. One of them is that it affects bone density. So consider drinking less to maintain healthy bones because to maintain bone health and density. Alcohol intake also interferes with calcium, which is a major nutrient for strong and healthy bones. Continuation of the consumption may result in weak bones and ultimately, fractures.

Falls: Avoid falling because it could increase the risk of fractures. In order to do so, make sure that no loose rugs or carpets are lying around. Also, avoid walking on slippery surfaces and make sure there are adequate lights in the house, especially at the staircases. Sometimes, weak eyesight may also increase the risk of falling, so make sure that you visit an ophthalmologist and get any issues resolved.  

Conclusion

One in every three women and one in every five men are at risk of fractures caused by osteoporosis. Osteoporosis can never be treated fully, but it can be prevented and avoided. Lifestyle changes and appropriate medical treatment can make the disease almost harmless. Staying positive and being aware of the causes and ways to prevent it is the key.