Osteoporosis is defined as the thinning of bone due to a reduction in bone mass and mineral density. It can lessen a person’s quality of life by significantly reducing mobility and can even hamper one to stand properly on the feet. The disease can majorly cause the bones to become thin and brittle as a result of having a low calcium and protein diet or may be inherited genetically through parents to successors. Studies believe that bone density generally starts to decay at age of 35 and mostly women and older age people are more prone to develop this condition. But today the scenario is different i.e., due to adoption of unhealthy dietary choices has increased the chances of disease occurrence even in the middle age group as per Ayurveda.
How to prevent osteoporosis? The best osteoporosis treatment is Ayurveda as it provides effective recovery without the worry of getting any side effects and also prevention from opting for unwanted surgeries. Ayurvedic treatment for osteoporosis is wholesome of herbal medications along with following suggested dietary and lifestyle changes by the experts which help balance the aggravated Doshas (for osteoporosis Vata Dosha) of the body, thus providing lifelong relief (systematic approach).
The symptoms if not treated timely through the right medications can worsen the condition.
The 10 risk factors associated with osteoporosis are:
- Gender
Women are at more risk of developing osteoporosis during the postmenopausal phase. At the onset of menopause, there is a rapid decrease in bone density and strength which is directly related to the hormone estrogen. This hormone regulates the women’s monthly reproductive cycle. The chances increase if they experience irregular menses, and have their ovaries removed surgically.
- Age
With the onset of the 30’s, it is seen there is a gradual decrease in bone mineral density and mass. This subsequently increases the chances of developing osteoporosis in both men and women. Therefore, by the time person reach 60 there is significant bone loss, making it weak and fragile.
- Poor diet
A diet that lacks calcium and vitamin D intake may account for decreased bone density making bones weak. These are required to build bone mass that aids in maintaining bone strength. The protein undernutrition diet may significantly contribute to osteoporotic fracture.
- Sedentary lifestyle
Also called inactive life where a person prefers comfort and relaxation over indulging more in physical activity. Not only osteoporosis, but also it is a leading cause of many health issues. Therefore, keep in mind that to live a disease-free life, it is important to maintain a good daily routine. Try on exercises like walking, running, and weight training for stronger bones.
- Hormonal problems
Medical conditions, especially hormonal and autoimmune-related can be a major risk for osteoporosis. This affects bone metabolism, thus making it weak and more prone to injuries and fractures. A decrease in hormones like estrogen and testosterone in women and men respectively is also one reason.
- Hereditary
Family history can also be a reason which should not be neglected. There are higher chances that disease may pass from parents to offspring if the former in their life has suffered a fracture that significantly weakens the bones and makes them stiff and numbed.
- Thin body frame
People who are obese are prone to suffer from joint pain. But little is known that person with a thin body framework are at high risk of developing osteoporosis due to declining bone mass and density.
- Alcohol intake
Individuals who are more into alcohol consumption have higher chances of developing osteoporosis. This is because the leaching of calcium causes a decrease in bone density at a faster rate.
- Smoking
The chemical found in cigarettes mainly interferes with the proper functioning of the bone cells. It additionally inhibits appropriate calcium absorption and prevents estrogen production in women.
- Medications
Medications that particularly are high in steroids can majorly weaken the bones. The long dependency and higher doses are a great threat to your bone health. Mainly antidepressants and anti-seizure medicines increase the chances of developing osteoporosis. Before taking any of the medications it is important to consult with doctors to lower the risk of future health issues.
