As you get older, you start to lose bone mass rather than adding it. For many people, this means developing osteoporosis at some point in their lives. There are steps you can take to limit your risk for developing this condition or to keep it from getting worse once you have developed it. What you eat or don't eat is one factor in how quickly your condition will get worse.
Calcium Balance
The amount of calcium that you consume and the amount that you absorb aren't the only important factors when it comes to osteoporosis, according to the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. The amount of calcium that is pulled from your bones is also important. You want to absorb more calcium than you lose to prevent or reverse osteoporosis.
Dietary Changes
Consuming lots of animal-based protein, including milk, causes calcium to be pulled from your bones because animal protein makes the blood more acidic and calcium is one mineral used to return the blood to the proper level of acidity. Get your calcium and protein from plant-based sources, make sure you consume enough vitamin D and limit sodium and caffeine intake to keep your bone density as high as possible.
Considerations
What you eat is not the only risk factor for osteoporosis. Caucasians, women, the elderly, people with a family history of osteoporosis and those who have certain medical conditions, such as thyroid problems, are more at risk for osteoporosis. The earlier osteoporosis is diagnosed, the sooner you can make the necessary changes to lower your risk for fractures, which can lower your quality of life.
Recommended Treatment
Nutritional approaches alone are not enough to reverse osteoporosis. At best, they can reduce bone loss and lower the risk of fracture due to osteoporosis. Participating in some form of weight-bearing exercise can also improve your bone density. Taking certain medications may make it possible to maintain your current bone density and possibly replace some of your bone density losses, according to the Texas AgriLife Extension Service.
