Osteoporosis is an incurable disease that causes bones to become weak, fragile and easily broken or fractured. It most commonly affects the hip, spine and wrist bones and largely impacts post-menopausal women but causes bone weakness in men as well. Although there are a number of medicines, under a variety of brand names, used to treat the disorder, there are also a number of non-drug treatments available.
Considerations
Weight-bearing exercises have shown to be excellent in not only treating, but preventing, osteoporosis. These exercises include walking, dancing, stair climbing, low-impact aerobics and use of elliptical training machines.
Types
Other forms of exercise useful in treating osteoporosis include strength training activities such as use of resistance bands, weight machines and water exercises, all of which build muscle and bone strength in the arms and spine and may slow down the rate of mineral loss. Stretching and range of motion activities are flexibility exercises that help prevent muscle injury and can improve posture and balance, all important in the treatment of osteoporosis.
Function
Osteoporosis requires treatment which will strengthen and build bone mass and density. Exercise has been shown to strengthen muscle, counter bone loss and promote growth of new, healthy bone tissue. Many sufferers of osteoporosis see even greater results when exercise programs are complemented with increases in calcium intake.
Vitamins
Proper levels of calcium and vitamin D in the diet are beneficial in treating osteoporosis and can be derived from food sources or nutritional supplements. Studies show that food sources better than supplements, particularly in post-menopausal women.
Sources
Dietary sources of calcium include dairy products, mineral water, carrots, cauliflower, celery, string beans and Chinese cabbage. Vitamin D can be found in milk, cheese, sardines and cooked greens.
Lifestyle
Avoiding or decreasing alcohol consumption, caffeine and soft drink intake is also recommended as a treatment for osteoporosis, particularly in (Ref. #1). Alcohol is known to be poisonous to new bone cells and over consumption can reduce bone formation and mass. Caffeine has been linked to calcium imbalance and, therefore, can lead to decreased bone health, including osteoporosis. (Ref. #3)
Diet
A simple way to improve bone health and treat osteoporosis is by increasing the amount of fruits and vegetables in the diet. Studies reveal that a diet rich in these healthy items improves bone health and strength and increases bone mineral content. (Ref. #4)
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