Learning that your loved one has osteoporosis can be startling after getting a bone density test done. This makes you begin to wonder if one can reverse osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a disease that makes their bones weak. This condition is caused by loss of bone density, which occurs when the body starts to develop little bones that are more likely to fracture or break easily.
Osteoporosis is a common disease in the U.S as about 54 million people are living with it. However, it is more common among women who have entered their menopause stage. This condition can cause many terrible outcomes as it can cause bones to break from simple movements such as coughs or bending.
Unfortunately, osteoporosis can’t be reversed completely as it is not curable. However, you can curb it by protecting your bones to prevent fractures from occurring.
Prevent Fractures with Medications
Even though you can’t reverse bone loss on your own, you can avoid further bone loss by protecting your bones from fractures. Once your doctor diagnoses you with osteoporosis, you will get certain medications recommended to you. These medications aim to prevent the condition from getting worse. The medications will help to reduce your risk of fracturing bones.
Two types of medication can help treat osteoporosis: Anabolics and Antiresorptive medications. Antiresorptive medications help reduce the level of breakdown in bone density while Anabolics help generate more bone than you are losing by building up your bone density. Examples of prescription-only osteoporosis drugs include Calcitonin, Estrogen, Prolia, and many others.
Prevent Fractures and Bone Loss
The best way to prevent fractures and bone loss is to strengthen your bone. Asides from taking medications, doctors also recommend some lifestyle dietary changes to help the condition. Let’s discuss ways in which you can prevent bone loss and fractures.
Get Enough Nutrients
Eating foods that are rich in nutrients is important to keep your bones strong. Consuming foods like fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and certain proteins will help to give your bones a boost. Likewise, Vitamin D and Calcium are essential vitamins and minerals to add to your diet to improve your bone health.
Calcium is a vital mineral the body needs to produce strong bones. You can get a good amount of calcium from dairy milk and leafy greens.
Your body also needs Vitamin D to process calcium. Fishes like tuna and salmon are a great source of vitamin D. Your body also needs vitamin K, magnesium, and Zinc for an improvement in bone health. Other lifestyle changes you can indulge in to improve your bone health includes:
- Consistent exercise
- Limit alcohol and caffeine intake
- Regular check-ups
- Refrain from smoking
- Eat healthy foods
- Use prescribed supplements
Even though osteoporosis is not curable, there are ways you can curb the symptoms and prevent further bone loss. Be sure to consult your doctor as soon as you notice early signs of bone loss.
