Osteoporosis is a serious condition that causes weak and porous bones leading to fractures. It is a major medical issue that affects tens of millions of people every year, especially those over the age of 50. It is known to sneak in silently, with most people not even realizing they have serious low bone density until they meet with a fracture. Since osteoporosis is a complicated disease, we are still learning a lot of things about it. However, there are a lot of myths revolving this disease, that can seem confusing. It is important that you understand the facts surrounding osteoporosis that can help you prevent bone loss early on, and treat it better if happen to get diagnosed. We have compiled a list of common facts and myths about osteoporosis so that you know the right things when it comes to this.
Myth – Osteoporosis doesn’t affect men
While it is true that women form the majority of osteoporosis patients, men can be affected too. In fact, according to a study, one in every 5 men are likely to meet with a fracture caused by osteoporosis in their lifetime. It can also occur due to ‘male-only’ conditions like an abnormal drop in testosterone levels.
Fact – You should get calcium and vitamin D any way you can
These are essential nutrients and should be made a part of your daily diet or should be consumed through supplements. Low-fat dairy like milk, yogurt and cheese should be a regular part of your diet. You can also get Vitamin D through fortified foods like cereals and orange juice. The protein and other nutrients present in food are not just for bone health, but for your total body health. If you diet is not sufficient, meet with your doctor and ask about supplements. Figure out a good routine where you take them daily without fail, as people tend to be forgetful when it comes to taking supplements.
Myth – Broken bones are the only cause of concern
That is not true. Osteoporosis is a serious condition and sometimes fatal too. Osteoporosis causes hip fractures and according to Dr. Deborah Sellmeyer, Healthline, 25% of those people die within the first six to 12 months after a hip fracture. Why does it happen? Hip replacement surgery can lead to a number of problems like:
o Arrhythmia
o Anaesthesia complications
o Pneumonia
o Health attacks
o Infections in older adults
Fact – It is never too late to do something about osteoporosis
There are many ways you can slow down the progress of your disease and lower the risks of breaks –
o If you are a smoker, quit smoking.
o Ensure that you are getting sufficient calcium and vitamin D. Eat a diet rich in vegetables and fruits and go easy on the protein, caffeine and sodium. Alcohol only in moderation.
Myth – Bones only break during falls
Most people experience bone fracture during a fall, but there are times when weak bones simply break. There are people who have spontaneous fractures; something as simple as the person leaning over a bed can exert enough pressure to cause a fracture. If someone is afflicted with osteoporosis, something basic like walking can be enough to cause stress fracture in his/her foot. Even with hip fractures, some people explain that they felt it happen even when they did not fall.
The progress of your osteoporosis can be arrested with the cumulative efforts mentioned in this article. Stay strong. Exercise. Maintain an active lifestyle. Engage yourself with physical activities daily. Weight-bearing exercise like jogging, walking, scaling stairs are recommended. They will make you strong, agile and less prone to falls.
QNET Nutriplus BoneHealth
QNET Nutriplus BoneHealth is a supplement which provides essential minerals and vitamins that are required for promoting bone health. A combination of calcium, magnesium, zinc along with vitamins C and D provide all required bone-protecting nutrients.
Calcium –
- Healthy bones and teeth
- Preserves bone density
- Healthy muscle and nerve functions
- Regular heart beat and clotting
Magnesium –
- Regulates biochemical activity in the body
- Healthy bones and teeth
- Regulates body temperature
Zinc –
- Healthy bone mass
- Immune system functioning
Vitamin C –
- Builds immunity
- Healthy bone tissues and collagen
- Helps heal wounds
- Healthy blood formation
Vitamin D –
- Healthy bones and teeth
- Uptake and utilisation of calcium in the body
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