One of the most important systems in the human body is the skeletal system. Our bones are designed to support us for an entire lifetime. However, over the years, constant usage and abuse takes a toll on our bones and they become weak. This is a normal process hence you don't need to worry about it. But osteoporosis will speeden this process up, resulting in massive decline in bone density.
Osteoporosis, also called brittle bone disease, is potentially one of the most serious health condition that causes the bones to weaken. Osteoporosis decreases the peak bone mass leading to fragile and easily broken bones, especially in the wrists and hips. Because the disease rarely causes symptoms, it may remain undiagnosed until a fracture occurs during a minor fall or accident. While osteoporosis is quite common it is still a condition that is widely misunderstood. Here are a few myths floating around:
Myth 1: Osteoporosis only affects elderly and is just a natural part of aging
Although the grave symptoms of Osteoporosis only appear after the age of 50, but the condition may start developing in the young age. Improper diet, no or little exercise, poor lifestyle choices, smoking at young age can advent osteoporosis. Bone mass develops rapidly between the age of 10 and 20, and peaks at age 30. After this age, bone mass starts to decrease. Therefore, it is important to start taking preventive actions when young. Good nutritional habits with adequate calcium, vitamin D and protein; regular weight-bearing exercise; avoiding smoking and excessive use of alcohol are some of the ways to minimize the risk of osteoporosis and fractures later in life.
Myth 2: Osteoporosis only affects women
Osteoporosis is not gender-specific. Although more common in women (one in three women suffer from osteoporosis), it's actually quite prevalent in men as well. Today, one in eight men over 50 will have an osteoporosis-related fracture. One in three hip fractures and one in five vertebral fractures occur in men. Hence, men should follow the same preventive measures as women.
Myth 3: It is in my Genes
Having a family member with osteoporosis does put you at higher risk, but do not think of it as an inevitable part of your future. Modification in diet and lifestyle, along with proper supplementation, can overcome genetic risk. There are other non-genetic risk factors also that contribute to the development of osteoporosis such as gender, age, early menopause in women, unhealthy diet, sedentary lifestyle, smoking and excessive alcohol.
Myth 4: Osteoporosis cannot be treated
If diagnosed in time, osteoporosis can be treated with new drugs that help to slow the disease and lower the risk of fracture by decreasing the rate of bone loss. Some of these drugs include selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), bisphosphonates, hormone replacement therapy, and calcitonin. Talk to your doctor on which drug is right for you. These treatments can reduce the risk of vertebral fractures by up to 65% and nonvertebral fractures by up to 70%. These can help to prevent life-threatening and painful fractures.
Your doctor can also suggest some of the exercises you can do safely when you have osteoporosis. Regular weight-bearing exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of fracture as it contributes to stronger muscles and bones, better balance, and agility which helps prevent falls.
Myth 5: If I have Osteoporosis, I will feel the weakness in my bones
Most people with osteoporosis don't have any symptoms and may not know they have the disease until they have a fracture. It's a silent illness that progresses slowly over time. To help determine whether bone loss has begun, it is important to get a bone density test every few years.
Myth 6: Calcium will solve everything
Osteoporosis is not only a Calcium deficiency. There are many nutritional requirements for good bone health including magnesium, protein, fatty acids, copper, zinc, manganese, phosphorus, folic acid, and an array of essential Vitamins like vitamin D.
Myth 7: Only Whites and Asians get Osteoporosis
Whites and Asians are at higher risk, but that does not mean other races and ethnicities are automatically spared, and it would be a big mistake to neglect self-care.
As a preventive strategy, it is always good to review your diet and exercise regime as we go through different stages of life. Supplements with recommended levels of calcium, vitamin D, magnesium and vitamin K are also invaluable in the war against Osteoporosis.
