If your doctor has diagnosed you with osteoporosis, you have an increased risk for developing a hip fracture. Osteoporosis is a disease in which the density of your bones decreases. According to 2010 estimates by the National Osteoporosis Foundation, about 10 million Americans have osteoporosis. You can decrease your risk of fractures by changing your diet, including your calcium intake.
Identification
When you turn 40, your doctor may refer you for a DXA scan. DXA stands for dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. The scan analyzes bone density at specific sites throughout your body. Generally, the scan reports the density of your femur neck, which is part of your hip, as a t score. Compared with normal values, your t score determines your bone density. A t score above --1 is normal; a score between --1 and --2.5 denotes osteopenia, a precursor to osteoporosis; and a score above --2.5 diagnoses osteoporosis.
Bone Building
Your body builds bone on an as-needed basis. After the age of 30, your body begins to break down bone faster than it builds it up. Two enzymes signal the breakdown or buildup of bone. Osteoblasts build bone, whereas osteoclasts degrade bone. If your calcium intake is not high enough, your body will trigger osteoclasts to break down bone so that the calcium can be used elsewhere.
Risk Factors
If you have a hip fracture, your health may deteriorate. According to a 2003 study published in the "Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma" by Jeffrey Richmond and colleagues, your risk of mortality increases two years after a hip fracture. This study followed patients for 10 years after they were admitted to the hospital for a hip fracture. The mortality rate was increased for six months after discharge, and the increased risk of dying lasted for two years. Mortality risk was higher for patients younger than 84 compared with that for patients older than 85.
Calcium Intake
Calcium intake for adults should equal 1,000 to 1,200 mg per day. Sources of calcium include milk, eggs, cheese, beans, dark leafy greens and some fish. Calcium supplements can assure that you are getting enough daily calcium. Before taking any new supplement, consult with your doctor.
Expert Insight
When trying to reduce your risk of hip fracture, diet is only half of the equation. Your body will maintain bone density if it has enough calcium and if you use your bones. If you are trying to prevent fractures and increase your bone density, you should participate in weight-bearing physical activities. Consult your doctor for recommendations on the appropriate diet and exercise for you.
References
- National Osteoporosis Foundation
- Mayo Clinic: Bone Density Test
- "Exericse Testing and Prescription"; David C. Nieman; 2007
- "Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma": Mortality Risk After Hip Fracture; Jeffrey Richmond, et al.; January 2003
