Osteoporosis is a crippling disease characterized by weakened bones that increases the risk for fractures. The National Institutes of Health, or NIH, reports that an estimated 44 million Americans have been touched by the condition. Cigarette smoking, and its relationship to calcium and lifestyle habits, has been identified as a major risk factor. Though the exact cause of low bone density among smokers remains uncertain, the role of dietary calcium stands at the forefront of osteoporosis prevention.
Calcium And Bone
Calcium is an essential mineral necessary for numerous bodily functions such as muscle contraction, nerve impulse transmission and blood clotting, states the National Osteoporosis Foundation, or NOF. As a critical component of bone health, calcium provides structural integrity and strength to the skeleton. Bones and teeth act as a storage tank for nearly 99 percent of the body's calcium, while the remaining one percent is found in soft tissues and watery compartments. When the mineral is in short supply, the body turns to the bone to meet its needs.
Puffing Away To Weak Bones
The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, or AAOS, describes the skeletal dangers posed by cigarettes. Smoking reduces the blood supply to the bones while nicotine slows the production of bone-forming cells, or osteoblasts. Smoking also inhibits calcium absorption from foods. In women, smoking decreases estrogen levels. Estrogen is a sex hormone needed for calcium deposition and bone density.
Indirect Impact Of Smoking On Bone
Outside its influence on calcium metabolism, the AAOS suggests that smoking may indirectly predispose individuals to fractures and bone loss. Low body weights are commonly linked to decreased bone density. Because cigarettes blunt the appetite, many smokers eat less. The chemicals in cigarettes, particularly nicotine, impair fracture and wound healing by decreasing blood circulation and osteoblast formation.
Preventing Smoking-Related Bone Loss
Despite these grim statistics, there is something you can do. Smoking-related bone loss can be prevented and potentially reversed, according to the NIH. Start by quitting. It is never too late to put the brakes on the damage caused by cigarettes. Eat a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D. A daily calcium allowance of 1000 mg is recommended for those under age 50. People 50 and above are advised to consume 1200 mg. Limit large quantities of other calcium-robbers listed by the NOF: caffeine, protein and sodium. Incorporate weight-bearing exercise into your routine. Finally, avoid excess alcohol and stress---two factors associated with osteoporosis and its consequences.
A Final Word
Calcium loss from bones occurs silently without pain or symptoms. The information provided by the NIH, the AAOS and the NOF sheds light on the influence of smoking on calcium and bone health and its relationship to osteoporosis. Through the adoption of a healthy, smoke-free lifestyle, these organizations offer preventive strategies to ward off the debilitating consequences of osteoporosis.
