Osteoporosis - How A Healthy Diet Can Reduce Its Risk?

The bones are a porous matrix which is filled with minerals like calcium and phosphorus which make them strong. Over a period of time, the mineral content is lost and therefore the matrix gets brittle. Bones are more likely to fracture in these people.

Causes/Risk factors:

1. The bones get fragile and brittle with age in most people, and people over 60 years of age are likely to be affected
2. Asian women about the age of 45 are prone to osteoporosis
3. Reduced vitamin D intake (either by sun exposure or through diet) also makes bone porous and prone to fracture
4. Sedentary lifestyle with minimal or no exercise
5. Lower levels of estrogen, especially post menopause
6. Cigarette smoking
7. Reduced testosterone levels
8. With fracture, there is severe pain, loss of mobility, and need for prolonged nursing.

Foods which can help control/prevent osteoporosis:

1. Yoghurt: Derived from milk, it is rich in animal protein and also contains good amounts of vitamin D and B2, calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. It helps in maintaining estrogen levels during menopause, thereby preventing osteoporosis. They also provide a good supply of gut bacteria, which improves immunity.
2. Milk: Similar to yoghurt, this is also rich in various minerals that are essential for bone health. The vitamin D in it also improves calcium absorption, thereby prolonging the occurrence of osteoporosis.
3. Fish and meat: Lean meat and fish are good sources of oils and protein and form an essential part of diet for preventing osteoporosis. Sardines and salmon are ideal as the tiny fish are rich sources of calcium.
4. Eggs: This contains good amounts of natural protein, minerals, and vitamins essential for bone health. It also helps in estrogen formation, which has a bone-protective effect.
5. Cabbage: Any form of cabbage is good for preventing osteoporosis. It promotes bone metabolism and has calcium which help in strong bone formation.
6. Bananas: Another effective food in preventing osteoporosis, it helps improve absorption of calcium and other essential nutrients to ensure bones are formed and maintain health. It also has natural oils, potassium, and vitamins A and C in good quantity.
7. Almonds: It forms an integral part of preventing osteoporosis by increasing bone density and promoting bone health. It also has good oil content, which is also essential for bone health.
8. Legumes: Beans and other legumes are rich source of proteins and minerals and therefore prevent onset of osteoporosis.
9. Chickpeas: Another great source of various minerals and vitamins, it is very low in calories and sugar and is great to lose weight. It also improves bone health by increasing density.