Osteoporosis causes the bones to weaken, which makes them more susceptible to fractures. Osteoporosis-related fractures can occur in almost any skeletal bone; however, the common areas to be affected are the spine, hips, ribs, and wrists. This article attempts to shed light on some of the common symptoms and causes associated with the condition. Along with that, it also highlights the foods to eat and treatment options to manage this condition.

Symptoms

There are no early symptoms of this condition, and it is usually discovered when the weakened bones cause painful fractures.

• Lower back pain
  Repeated spinal fractures over the years can cause lower back pain.

• Loss of height
  Getting shorter by an inch or more is another sign of this disease. This happens when there is a break in one of the vertebrae in the neck or back.

• Change in posture
  Posture changes such as stooping or bending forward point toward this condition.

• Bone fractures
  Bone fractures that occur even with minimal stress are a symptom of this condition. For example, a fracture from walking or a strong sneeze or cough is a sign of osteoporosis.

Causes

• Changes in hormones
  Menopause in women causes the levels of estrogen to reduce significantly. This accelerates bone loss and increases the risk of fractures. Low levels of testosterone are a cause of bone loss in men.

• Lack of calcium and Vitamin D
  A meal plan low in calcium and Vitamin D can lead to weak bones.

• Medical conditions
  Medical conditions such as gastrointestinal diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, and other hormone and endocrine diseases can cause osteoporosis.

• Sedentary lifestyle
  Lack of physical activity can also contribute to an increase in bone loss.

Treatment

Although osteoporosis is difficult to treat with appropriate measures, the risk of future fractures can be decreased. This involves a combination of treatment options and lifestyle changes.

Ways to reduce loss of bone density

• Bisphosphonates
  They are the most commonly used options for the treatment of osteoporosis.

• Hormone therapy
  For men, testosterone might be given to increase bone density. In women, bone density loss caused due to menopause can be treated with hormone therapy. This therapy should only be used for a short time as it increases the risk of blood clots, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.

Foods to eat

A healthy meal plan along with treatment options is important to treat osteoporosis. Here are the nutrients that can boost bone health:

• Calcium and vitamin D
  Foods that help strengthen bones are those that are rich in calcium and vitamin D. Include dairy products such as low-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese, salmon, sardines, kale, and broccoli in meals. Eggs, salmon, mackerel, and fortified cereals, and juices are good sources of vitamin D. These help the body to absorb calcium properly.

• Protein
  Protein is needed to support bone density and maintain tissue growth. Lean protein sources are eggs, skinless chicken, and other lean meats, beans, and dairy.

• Magnesium
  Eat a handful of nuts and seeds every day to promote bone health. Almonds, pistachios, and sunflower seeds can help one get enough of this mineral.

• Vitamin C
  Vitamin C also plays a role in the absorption of calcium. The best way to include Vitamin C in one’s meals is to consume citrus fruits.

• Zinc
  Poor bone health is associated with low levels of zinc. Beans, nuts, seafood, whole grains, and dairy products are zinc-rich foods that help maintain healthy bones.

It is also important to limit the consumption of foods that are high in sodium, caffeine, and alcohol, as these can contribute to bone loss. One could also speak to their doctor about taking supplements.

Exercising and maintaining a healthy weight can go a long way in preventing and treating osteoporosis. If one thinks they are at risk of this silent disease, they should take steps to strengthen their bones to avoid complications.