How Diet Can Influence Osteoporosis Risk

It involves a reduction in the bone mineral density, a disruption of the bone microarchitecture and an alteration of the amount and variety of proteins in the bone, which leads to brittle bones and an increased risk of break.

 

The condition is most commonly present in women after the menopause, but it can also develop in men and younger people, particularly if certain hormonal diseases are present that makes it simpler for osteoporosis to appear. It can also develop due to some chronic diseases and even as a result of certain medications, such as glucocorticoids – a type of steroid – and is generally considered a disease that can significantly affect both life quality and life expectancy.

Thankfully, osteoporosis is also a condition that can be prevented largely through some lifestyle changes. One of the most commonly known preventative measures is an increase of calcium into the system, as calcium promotes bone strength, density and overall health. But, simply increasing calcium may not help.

One, largely neglected, reason that osteoporosis develops in people is thanks to an over-consumption of dietary protein, because excess protein really removes calcium from the bones and then the body, excreting it through urine. For this reason, it is vital to eat a balanced diet that does not rely too heavily on protein, although this may seem counter intuitive at first based on how often we are told we need protein to be strong.

The truth is that many people eat far too much protein, far more than they are naturally in need of, thanks to fake advertising and food industry rumour and myth. While a necessary part of the diet, protein can do just as much harm as it can excellent when consumed to excess.

Other lifestyle changes, such as an increase in gentle exercise in order to keep the body strong and fit can help keep bones healthier. You may also want to consider vitamin D supplements if you feel you are at risk, though the best way to be able to tell is to go for an osteoporosis screening, which will tell you the condition of your bones and whether you should be concerned or not.

Even just a few changes can make all the difference when it comes to prevention of osteoporosis.
Just bear in mind that nothing keeps a body healthy like excellent food and exercise – and watch out for your protein intake, especially if your calcium intake is low!