(ARA) – As the cold weather approaches and the task of heading outside to shovel heavy snow looms, it is important for men to think about their bone strength and overall health. Osteoporosis is a disease that many people assume only affects women – but did you know it can also impact men and their health? According to data from the National Osteoporosis Foundation, osteoporosis affects approximately 2 million American men and few recognize the condition as a significant threat to their mobility and independence. Men may also be unaware of other causes or conditions that can increase their risk of developing osteoporosis. throughout life, bone density is affected by heredity, diet, physical activity, lifestyle choices and the use of certain medications. Research has also shown that men with a condition called hypogonadism, more commonly known as low testosterone, may have an increased risk for osteoporosis. A combination of factors can play a role in the rate of bone loss in the body which can lead to low bone mineral density, fragility of the skeleton and ultimately osteoporosis.”Unfortunately many men do not realize that a decrease in bone mineral density may be attributed to undiagnosed low levels of testosterone,” says Dr. Natan Bar-Chama, director of Male Reproductive Medicine and Surgery at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York. “But studies have shown that the prevalence of osteoporosis in men is higher than previously thought because of the increased risk associated with other conditions like hypogonadism, making it important for men to visit their doctor to discuss the condition and potential risk factors.”Hypogonadism affects up to 4 million men in the U.S., most of whom remain untreated because its signs and symptoms are nonspecific. These men may experience sexual dysfunction, decreased sexual desire and muscle mass, loss of body hair and decreased bone mineral density, which can negatively impact their lives. These symptoms can interfere with vital daily functions. Make no bones about it – osteoporosis can severely impact men and their health, including potentially leading to broken bones and limited mobility. Men who believe they are experiencing symptoms of low testosterone should consult their physician about proper diagnosis and potential treatment options.for more information about low testosterone and a medical condition known as hypogonadism, visit IsItLowT.com.

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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.