Showing posts with label osteoporosis. Show all posts
Showing posts with label osteoporosis. Show all posts

Friday, November 11, 2011

Osteoporosis: An Avoidable Disease?

Line drawing of fractured hipImage via Wikipedia
Osteoporosis has become a disease that is almost synonymous with aging, being female and insufficient vitamins to keep our bones healthy.  Is this what you think about the disease?  Well, this is not entirely true.

What are the facts regarding this illness and how can we avoid it? Please consider the following information.

Facts about Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disease that we do not have to have.  This information is from The Sun Herald of Australia.  The disease is highly preventable.  But, it is predicted that by the year 2020, one of three hospital beds will be occupied by women with fractures.

A report by Osteoporosis Australia shows that the disease is more prevalent than high cholesterol, allergies or the common cold.  Its management costs more than diabetes or asthma related costs.
And, surprisingly, the death rate is higher in women from hip fractures is greater than the incidence of all female cancers combined.  That is some number.

How to protect yourself

The best defense against this disease is to build peak bone mass in the first three decades of life through exercise and adequate calcium intake.  The risk of suffering from osteoporosis can also be greatly reduced by discontinuing smoking, excessive alcohol or caffeine beverage.

Participating in any group of activities is another great idea to present onset.  Consuming foods high in vitamin D and calcium are essential.

Source:

Watching the World Awake Magazine
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Monday, October 31, 2011

Practical steps to reduce fractures

A fracture of the fifth metatarsal of the foot...Image via Wikipedia
Osteoporosis becomes a frightening reality as we get older-we have no control over that.  What we do have some control over is the reduction of certain preventable falls and fractures that  can cause years of immobility and hospitalizations.

In this post are three steps that can help reduce your risk of falls and possible fractures.

Bone density

This is a quick and painless test that measures the density of bones that are most likely to fracture-the hips, spine and wrists.  If your test shows that you are at risk, your doctor can make suggestions in dietary changes and prescribe medications as needed.

Build up your muscles

Exercise is always at the top of the list as far as health goes.  It helps improve circulation, it provides bone strength and support as well as assist in coordination. According to the experts, weightbearing activity can increase bone density.

Dietary aids

It is important to take in enough protein to build up muscles.   Calcium and vitamin D are also important for bone strength.  It is recommended to take 1,200 mg a day of calcium and 600-800 IUs of vitamin D. 

Other things that can be done is to fall proof the home by eliminating slippery throw rugs, cords and wires where someone could trip.


Source:

"Simple ways to help your Hips" AARP Magazine
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