Prevention Of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a degenerative disease of the skeletal system. Bone mass and density is decreased putting those who suffer from the condition at an increased risk and causes higher instances of fractures. While there is no single known cause for this disease there are several factors that help determine who will get Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is largely preventable for most people. Prevention of this disease is very important because, while there are treatments for osteoporosis, there is currently no cure. It is never too early to start, in fact the earlier the better. Since peak bone mass is reached somewhere around age 25, healthy lifestyle choices including proper diet and exercise are extremely important for children and adolescence who are still growing and forming bones.

The most important measures to take to aid in the prevention of osteoporosis are a healthy diet, regular weight bearing exercise, avoidance of smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol. Since there are so many factors that put one at risk for osteoporosis that cannot be changed or altered, taking all precautionary measures is extremely important. Compounding risk factors only increases the likelihood of getting the disease, just as taking as many precautionary measures may lower overall risk.

Inadequate calcium is thought to contribute to the development of osteoporosis. Surveys have shown that many women and young girls consume less than half the amount of calcium recommended to grow and maintain healthy bones. Vitamin D is needed for the body to absorb calcium. Without adequate amounts of Vitamin D, the body does not get enough calcium and therefore leaches it from the bones. Regular weight bearing exercise is recommended at least 3 times a week for about 30 minutes. Regular exercise helps to strengthen all of the body including the bones. Frequent physical activity in the formative years may help to contribute to greater bone mass density, the most important factor in osteoporosis. Smoking has been shown to reduce bone mass, and smokers tend to have more risk factors then non-smokers. While it is best not to start at all, quitting smoking can result in an increase in bone mass. Alcohol consumption may inhibit calcium absorption, and heavy drinkers are more likely to lead sedentary lifestyles, have poor nutrition and are more prone to falls.

Osteoporosis is often referred to as the silent disease because there are no visible signs or symptoms of bone loss. Fractures may even occur without detection. Early diagnosis is extremely important so that if preventative measures weren't being taken before that a prevention and treatment plan can be developed to minimize further damage. A Bone Mineral Density test (BMD) is the only way to diagnose osteoporosis and determine risk for future fracture. For those at highest risk it may be a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional about taking dietary supplements to help boost the amount of necessary vitamins and minerals that the body needs for optimal health. For some it may even be recommended to start an osteoporosis treatment for the purpose of prevention.

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