Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a disease of bone in which the bone mineral density is reduced. This reduction makes bones
susceptible to fracture. Due to its hormonal component, more women suffer from osteoporosis than men.
Symptoms
Osteoporotic fractures occur under slight amount of stresses that would not normally lead to fractures in people without
osteoporosis. Fractures typically occur in the vertebral column, hip and wrist. Also people can suffer from collapse of vertebrae
which leads to chronic pain. While osteoporosis can occur in men, it is overwhelmingly prevalent in women.
Low peak bone mass is a
main cause of osteoporosis. Bone mass peaks in both men and women between the ages of 25 and 35. Achieving a higher peak bone mass
through exercise and proper nutrition during adolescence is important for the prevention of osteoporosis.
Treatment
Patients with osteoporosis are generally treated with vitamin D and calcium supplements. Changes to lifestyle and diet are
also recommended. Patient should take 1500mg of calcium daily either via dietary means or via supplements. The body will absorb only
about 500 mg of calcium at one time and so intake should be spread throughout the day. Some nutrionists assert that excess consumption
of dairy products causes acification, which leaches calcium from the system, and argue that vegetables and nuts are a better source
of calcium and that in fact milk products should be avoided. Also it is recommended that patients do at least thirty minutes of weight-bearing
exercise such as walking or jogging, three times a week.
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