Nutritional Needs For Fractures

Bone fractures, or broken bones, are a common, yet painful health problem that can significantly affect your quality of life. Fractures may be caused by numerous factors or conditions, although osteoporotic fractures may be one of the most common causes of this health problem. The International Osteoporotic Foundation states that 33 percent of women -- and 20 percent of men -- over the age of 50 will experience an osteoporosis-related fracture. Ask your doctor about your nutritional needs in healing your fracture.

About Fractures

Although osteoporosis is one of the most common causes of fractures, two other principle factors may cause broken bones: traumatic injuries and overuse injuries. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, most trauma-related fractures are caused by motor vehicle accidents and most stress fractures from overuse occur in athletes. There are many different types of fractures, including transverse, greenstick, comminuted, compound and simple. Fractures usually take several weeks or months to fully heal, although proper nutrition may help speed your healing process.

Dietary Recommendations

Dietary changes are one of the most important aspects of nutrition therapy in treating your fracture and speeding your recovery. Certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," states that important dietary inclusions in treating this health problem include kelp and pineapple, due to their ability to restore important minerals and reduce swelling and inflammation. Eating foods high in calcium, magnesium and potassium is also important. Consider avoiding caffeine-containing substances, such as soft drinks, as well as foods containing preservatives. Many foods containing preservatives are high in phosphorus, which can lead to bone loss.

Helpful Nutritional Supplements

Several nutritional supplements may be appropriate for people who have fractures. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, four supplements may be particularly helpful for this health purpose, including phopshorus, horsetail, comfrey and arnica. Other useful nutritional supplements to help speed fracture healing include proteolytic enzymes, boron, silica, vitamin D and zinc. The true efficacy of some supplements historically used in treating fractures may be unknown. Further research using contemporary testing methods may be required to validate these supplements' purported health effects.

Additional Information

Bone fractures range from mild to severe, and some fractures may cause permanent disability. If you experience a fracture, ask your doctor about all relevant, safe and efficacious treatment methods that may enhance your body's natural healing response. Nutrition therapy -- dietary changes, nutritional supplements -- may be a helpful adjunct therapy for this health purpose, but you should always understand the limitations and risks associated with this natural treatment approach before using it. Ask your doctor if nutrition therapy is appropriate for you and your health problem.