Osteoporosis means “porous bone””, often no symptoms of bone loss until the bones become so weak that sudden strain, bump or fall causes a fracture. Osteoporosis is a bone condition distinguished by low bone density and weakening of bone strength. it can be diagnosed by means of a low radiation scan, which measures bone mineral density. Most associate osteoporosis to elderly, however, some cases showed as early as 19 years old suffer from osteoporosis.
Heredity is the significant risk factor in acquiring osteoporosis, if a parent has an history of this disease the children has double the risk to occur on them. another is malnutrition of a fetus, which results in lower bone density in childhood. also, certain medical conditions, such as Cushing’s disease, diabetes, and hyperthyroidism can contribute to osteoporosis. The reason why four times more women suffer from osteoporosis than men is due to menopause in women results in reduction of estrogen that protect bone mass. and, a diet low in calcium and vitamin D is an adding factor to bone failure. Lastly, lifestyle of limited physical activity, such as smoking, is an additional risk factor of osteoporosis.
Prevention of Osteoporosis is put down in childhood and adolescence foundation. that is when 90 percent of a person’s total bone mass is reached. Calcium plays an important role in having a strong skeletal structure, because it is stored mainly in the bones. Sources of calcium are milk and dairy products such as yogurt and cheese; canned sardines and salmon (eaten with the bones); almonds; oatmeal; sesame seeds; tofu; and dark green leafy vegetables. Vitamin D however is required for the calcium to be absorbed by the body. Vitamin D is produced in the skin through sunlight exposure. at least ten minutes sunbathing contributes to preventing the development of osteoporosis as it provides around 600 units of Vitamin D. It can also be found in foods such as egg yolks, saltwater fish and liver. Exercise is usually not being stressed out as one way prevention. Exercise during childhood and adolescence helps to increase bone mass, and in old age helps to prevent loss of bone mass. Exercises in which muscles work against gravity or other forces without overstressing the bones and joints such as weight-bearing and resistance exercises are highly recommended. Walking, climbing stairs and light dancing are simple but effective weight-bearing exercises.
True changing lifestyle is difficult but what benefits come to those who make the effort to do so is that they may avoid being one of the many millions worldwide who suffer from osteoporosis.