Foods to Manage Osteoporosis

Foods to Manage Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis causes one’s bones to become very fragile, and the condition is usually diagnosed when one has a minor fall and gets bone injuries that are out of proportion to the mildness of the fall. Treatment for osteoporosis involves taking supplements and making dietary changes to support the strengthening of the bones. Along with these, several foods and dietary tips can be effective for osteoporosis:

  • Fatty fish
    Fatty cuts of fish naturally help lubricate and protect the joints. For instance, look for fish filled with healthy fats such as salmon, herring, mackerel, tuna and sardines.
  • Dairy products
    Calcium in a known source of joint support and strength, so seek out milk, yogurt, cheese, and other calcium-rich foods. Just be sure to enjoy in moderation as these can be high in fat.
  • Nuts
    Nuts are also an excellent source of health fats and protein for joint support and natural lubrication. Try nuts like almonds and Brazil nuts.
  • Leafy greens
    Vitamin K is an ally in joint health. Dark leafy greens happen to be rich in this vitamin that not only protects joints but also reduces the overall risk of osteoporosis. Try a variety of leafy greens such as turnip greens, swiss chard, bok choy, collard greens, kale, and turnip greens
  • Avoid or quit smoking
    Smoking is harmful to one’s overall health as it results in constricted blood flow to all the parts of the body. In addition to blocking the blood supply to the bones, it affects the body’s ability to absorb calcium, resulting in poor bone health. Calcium supplements and dietary changes to increase the intake of the mineral will also not have the desired effect until the absorption of calcium is blocked. Nicotine causes the production of new bone cells to be slowed down. Besides, hormonal balance is important for bone health in both men and women, and smoking causes hormonal imbalances, weakening the bones.
  • Limit alcohol intake
    Alcohol inhibits the absorption of calcium by the body in multiple ways. It affects the pancreas and its ability to absorb both calcium and vitamin D. Alcohol also harms the functioning of the liver, inhibiting the absorption of vitamin D, which is important for the absorption of calcium by the body. Besides, alcohol consumption disrupts hormonal balance, adding to bone loss, and chronic alcohol intake slows down bone formation and damages nerves. Also, alcohol intake affects balance and increases the chances of falls, which can cause fractures due to brittle bones. These fractures heal very slowly in alcoholic patients.