Health & Diseases

Osteoporosis is a silent disease. No symptoms often are present until the bones become so weak that fractures become common. These fractures usually are of the hip, ribs, wrist or spine. Osteoporosis is not limited to elderly women. In the US one out of every two women and one in four men sustain fractures related to osteoporosis. This bone disease occurs a high rate of disability and even mortality with patients aged 50 or older who suffer hip fractures.

Are you at risk for this “swiss cheese” disease? Heredity is a significant risk factor. The older you get, the more the likelihood of acquiring osteoporosis. Estrogen deficiency also contributes to later in life osteoporosis for many women.

How can women, and even men, prevent this horrible diagnosis? Changing eating habits and lifestyle is a good start. A diet low in calcium and vitamin D3 contributes to bone deterioration. In order for calcium to be absorbed by the body, Vitamin D3 is very important. Eating too much salt is another factor as is drinking too much alcohol accompanied by poor nutrition.

Another reason to stop smoking cigarettes and adopting an exercise routine. During the growing up years, childhood exercising increases bone mass and then will prevent bone loss in old age. Exercises which force muscles to work against gravity are recommended for most individuals. Walking is good for any age group.

Osteoporosis does not have to be a part of your life if good nutrition and a good exercise routine is followed faithfully. This silent disease does not have to alert you of its existence when unannounced fractures occur.