OSTEOPOROSIS

What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a progressive bone disease that is characterized by a decrease in
bone mass and density which can lead to an increased risk of fracture. In
osteoporosis, the bone mineral density (BMD) is reduced, bone microarchitecture
deteriorates, and the amount and variety of proteins in bone are altered.
Symptoms:
Osteoporosis Symptoms:
Osteoporosis can be a silent disease, but many patients suffer symptoms such as
pain and height loss. Read a brief description of osteoporosis symptoms.
Compression Fractures of the Back:
Sudden, severe back pain, especially in older women, often signifies a spinal
compression fracture -- a sign of weak bones. So get that back pain checked out.
Types:
The disease may be classified as primary type 1, primary type 2, or secondary. The
form of osteoporosis most common in women after menopause is referred to as
primary type 1 or postmenopausal osteoporosis, which is attributable to the decrease
in estrogen production after menopause. Primary type 2 osteoporosis or senile
osteoporosis occurs after age 75 and is seen in both females and males at a ratio of
2:1. Secondary osteoporosis may arise at any age and affect men and women
equally; this form results from chronic predisposing medical problems or disease, or
prolonged use of medications.
Prevention/ Treatment:
It is suggested that people suffering from osteoporosis:

get enough calcium and vitamin D and eat a well balanced diet. Food is the
best source of calcium. Dairy products, such as low-fat and non-fat milk, yogurt and
cheese are high in calcium. Certain green vegetables and other foods contain
calcium in smaller amounts. Some juices, breakfast foods, soymilk, cereals, snacks,
breads and bottled water have calcium that has been added. Vitamin D is naturally
available in only a few foods, including fatty fish like wild-caught mackerel, salmon and
tuna. Vitamin D is also added to milk and to some brands of other dairy products, orange
juice, soymilk and cereals. Another good way for people to get vitamin D is exposure to
sunlight.
engage in regular exercise.

eat foods that are good for bone health, such as fruits and vegetables.
avoid smoking and limit alcohol to 2-3 drinks per day.
The following table includes some foods that are considered good for healthy bones:

Source: National Osteoporosis Foundation

Food

Nutrien
t

Dairy products such as low-fat and non-fat milk, yogurt and

cheese

Calcium.
Some
dairy
products
are
fortified
with
Vitamin
D.

Fish
Canned sardines and salmon (with bones)

Calcium

Fatty varieties such as salmon, mackerel, tuna and sardines

Vitamin
D

Fruits and vegetables

Collard greens, turnip greens, kale, okra, Chinese cabbage,
dandelion greens, mustard greens and broccoli.

Calcium

Spinach, beet greens, okra, tomato products, artichokes,

plantains, potatoes, sweet potatoes, collard greens and raisins.

Magnesi
um

Tomato products, raisins, potatoes, spinach, sweet potatoes,

papaya, oranges, orange juice, bananas, plantains and prunes.

Potassiu
m

Red peppers, green peppers, oranges, grapefruits, broccoli,

strawberries, brussels sprouts, papaya and pineapples.

Vitamin
C

Dark green leafy vegetables such as kale, collard greens, spinach,

mustard greens, turnip greens and brussel sprouts.

Vitamin
K

Fortified Foods
Calcium and vitamin D are sometimes added to certain brands of
juices, breakfast foods, soy milk, rice milk, cereals, snacks and
breads.

Calcium,
Vitamin
D