Osteoporosis is a progressive bone disease characterized by the deterioration of bone tissue and the loss of bone density. Normally, bones undergo a continuous process of breakdown and rebuilding. However, in individuals with osteoporosis, bone resorption exceeds bone formation, resulting in fragile and brittle bones that are more susceptible to fracture.
Causes and risk factors
Several factors contribute to the development of osteoporosis:
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Age: Osteoporosis is more common in older adults because bone density decreases with age.
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Sex: Women are at greater risk of developing osteoporosis, especially after menopause, when estrogen levels drop.
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Hormonal changes: Hormonal imbalances, such as those associated with menopause or conditions such as hyperthyroidism, can contribute to bone loss.
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Nutritional Deficiencies: Inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin D, essential for bone health, can increase the risk of osteoporosis. Relying more on vitamin D, it supports the absorption of calcium into the bones. The first thought people have is that they are drinking more cow’s milk, when in reality milk is acidic and can leach calcium from the bones. A major study was done many years ago at this link at the bottom.
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Family history: A family history of osteoporosis can increase the chance of developing the condition.
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Lifestyle Factors: Lack of physical activity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and a sedentary lifestyle can all contribute to bone loss.
Osteoporosis is often called a ‘silent disease’ because it can progress without noticeable symptoms until a rupture occurs. Common fractures associated with osteoporosis include those of the hip, spine and wrist. However, some people may experience back pain, loss of height, or a stooped posture as the condition progresses.
Prevention and support
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Power supply: Ensure adequate calcium intake through a balanced diet (plant-based is best) (no, don’t drink more milk or take supplements. Find out why below) Menopausal/post-menopausal women need 1000 IU of vitamin D + K. This may need to be supplemented. Another consideration is genes. You may not be able to process synthetic vitamin D. You may need to activate it. Magnesium is also important in balancing calcium and magnesium and we are often challenged when it comes to magnesium.
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Regular exercise: Participate in weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, jogging and resistance training, to promote bone density.
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Lifestyle Adjustments: Quit smoking, limit alcohol intake and maintain a healthy body weight.
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Probiotic Research has been done on a specific strain. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted in 249 postmenopausal women in Sweden. Using this specific brand of probiotic strain for 12 months showed a 78% reduction in bone loss compared to that on placebo.
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Homeopathy – Can help prevent further degeneration. Common remedies we use are silica, Cal phos, Cal Carb, Cal F.
Calcium helps prevent fractures is simply not true.
“A meta-analysis with seven cohorts A total of 170,991 women reported that calcium supplementation does not reduce the risk of hip fractures, and on the contrary may increase the risk.
“The 12-year Harvard Nurses’ Health Study found that those who consumed the most calcium from dairy products broke more bones than those who rarely drank milk. This is a broad study based on 77,761 women between the ages of 34 and 59.”