Your risk for osteoporosis
OSTEOPOROSIS is a reduction in the quantity of bone structure which results from a loss of the protein and calcium that provide bones with their strength and resistance to fractures. As a result, the bones become weak and may break from a minor fall or, in serious cases, even from simple actions like sneezing or bumping into furniture.
The condition is believed to be common in women after menopause.
Dr Sharmaine Mitchell, obstetrician and gynaecologist, says 25 per cent of post-menopausal women will develop osteoporosis if supplemental oestrogen is not provided.
However, she says oestrogen replacement has significant side effects and may not be appropriate for some women, especially if there is a high risk for breast cancer, heart disease, strokes and a clot in the leg.
“Regular weight-bearing exercises, daily calcium supplementation, the elimination of cigarette smoking, and a reduction in the amount of caffeine-containing foods, beverages and alcohol will help to reduce the onset or severity of osteoporosis,” according to Dr Mitchell.
It is believed that a number of factors can increase the likelihood of someone developing osteoporosis. These include age, race, lifestyle choices, and medical conditions.
Some risk factors that leave you vulnerable to osteoporosis are:
*Being a woman. Although men can develop the condition, women are much more likely to do so.
*Race. Caucasians and those of Asian descent are at greater risk.
*Genes. Having a parent or sibling with osteoporosis puts you at greater risk.
*Body size. People with small body frames tend to have a higher risk because they may have less bone mass to draw from as they age.
* Age. The older you get, the greater the risk.
The reduction of oestrogen levels at menopause is one of the strongest risk factors for developing osteoporosis. If your thyroid is overactive or if you take too much thyroid hormone medication to treat an underactive thyroid, this can cause bone loss resulting in osteoporosis. Low calcium intake over time can contribute to diminished bone density, early bone loss and an increased risk of fractures.
Those with eating disorders like anorexia are at higher risk, since low food intake can reduce the number of calories and the amount of protein and calcium ingested. Anorexia can stop menstruation which in turn can lead to weaker bones.
The consumption of foods containing calcium is sure to be beneficial to the bones. Some of these foods include broccoli, milk, cheese, yogurt and fish, especially sardines.
