People have known for years that smoking increases your risk for cancer as well as lung and heart diseases. More recently, however, research has identified a link between smoking and bone health. It is important to understand this newly understood connection to reverse habits before it is too late.
Osteoporosis
Cigarette smoking appears to be a significant risk factor for developing osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to weaken and makes them susceptible to breaking. Studies show a direct link between tobacco use and decreased bone density, according to the NIH Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center.
How Cigarettes Affect Bones
Like other body organs, bones rely on blood for necessary nutrients, minerals and oxygen. Cigarettes elevate the amount of nicotine in the blood, causing blood vessels to constrict, thus restricting the amount of nutrients flowing to bones and other organs. With less nutrients to work with, the formation of bone-forming cells is slowed, bone density decreases and new bone formation is delayed. As a result, smokers have a greater risk of breaking a bone, and their bones will take longer to heal in the event of a fracture.
The Impact of the Smoking Lifestyle
Many who smoke tend to consume more alcohol, exercise less and eat less healthily than nonsmokers. Furthermore, women who smoke tend to enter menopause at an earlier age than do nonsmokers. Alcohol use, a sedentary lifestyle, poor nutrition and early menopause are all risk factors associated with osteoporosis.
Improving Bone Health
Although it may take years to lower your risk of osteoporosis, quitting smoking will eventually help with bone density and fractures. Together with a healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, increased exercise, and drinking in moderation, you may be able to slow the progression of osteoporosis and improve your bone health.
