Osteoporosis is a condition that occurs when your bones become frail. Your bones are constantly going through a process of breaking down old bone and replacing it with new bone. In the case of osteoporosis, bone is being broken down faster than it is being replaced. The bone becomes porous and is more susceptible to breaking. However, the good news is that in most cases this condition can be prevented. The first step is to understand the causes of osteoporosis and then take steps to reduce your risk of developing this condition.
Not Enough Estrogen
Estrogen is a hormone in both men and women, but it is found in a higher concentration in women. Estrogen is essential to help protect your bones and keep them strong. As a women enters menopause her estrogen levels drop and the bones can become frail. This can also occur in younger women who need to have their ovaries removed. In men, osteoporosis can also occur if testosterone levels get too low.
A Diet Lacking Calcium
According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, not getting enough calcium in your diet can contribute to weak bones and osteoporosis. This occurs because if your body is not getting the calcium it needs to maintain normal function, it will break down your bones to meet its needs. In addition, you need to watch your consumption of foods containing oxalate, protein, phytate sodium and caffeine. These substances have been shown to interfere with your body's ability to absorb calcium. The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends that you get as much as much of your daily calcium requirements from foods as you can, rather than supplements.
Smoking
The National Institutes of Health state that there appears to be a direct link between smoking and weak bones; however, the exact relationship is still not well understood. One theory is that women who smoke tend to have lower levels of estrogen and enter menopause earlier. A low level of estrogen is a contributing factor to a loss of bone mass. The NIH says that in addition, smokers may have a lower body weight, may consume more alcohol and eat poorly, all of which can contribute to this condition.
Sedentary Lifestyle
The Cleveland Clinic states that a lack of physical activity has also been linked to the development of osteoporosis. This is because when you exercise you place stress on your bones. This stress helps stimulate bone growth. This is especially true for exercise that is considered weight-bearing. Weight-bearing exercises for the lower body include walking and dancing. A weight-bearing exercises for the upper body is pushups. If you do not exercise enough, your bones will not be stimulated to grow and can become frail.
Medications
Certain medications can also affect your bone density. The most common culprits are cortisone, hydrocortisone, glucocortisoids, thyroid medications, anti-seizure medications, cancer drugs and prednisone. If you are taking any of these drugs, talk to your doctor about having regular bone-density tests to help keep an eye on your bone health.
