What Is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become fragile and brittle. Our bodies constantly absorb and replace bone tissue, but osteoporosis alters this normal process, by slowing it down. Calcium deficiency is a major cause of this condition as low calcium [1] intake causes bone quality to diminish and is prone to fractures. Persons suffering from eating disorders that severely limit food intake are also at risk of developing osteoporosis. Being underweight weakens the bone in both men and women. In osteoporosis patients, new bone creation doesn’t keep up with old bone removal.
This condition can happen to people of all ages and may continue for several years or be lifelong. There is no cure [2] for this condition, but with proper management, patients can protect and strengthen their bones. Some treatment methods help slow down the breakdown of bone tissue, while others help speed up the replacement process. This condition must not be left untreated as it can lead to several health complications or death.
Studies have shown that osteoporosis kills more women than cancer, but it isn’t as talked about as it should be. Genetic factors, heavy smoking, and being underweight are some of the things that put you at risk of developing osteoporosis. Common places for bone breaks and fractures to occur are in the hip, spine, or wrist, but it can happen in other places too. Patients experience pain at the affected site for the rest of their lives, and some experience height loss. If the condition affects the vertebrae of the spine, it often leads to a stooped or hunched posture.
Here is a list of foods to eat if you are suffering from Osteoporosis. These foods [3] help prevent symptoms from worsening and can strengthen your bone quality. They are: