Facts About Bone Health Issues

The bones in your body help you to move, give your body its shape, and support your body. Bones are living tissues that continuously rebuild throughout your life. In order to build strong bones and prevent bone health issues as you age, it is essential that you get enough calcium, vitamin D and exercise.

Function

• Bones have three major functions in the human body. We need healthy bones in the body to protect the internal organs and body tissue, to anchor the muscles and provide support for the body, and to give shape and structure so that our body is able to move. Healthy bones are essential in keeping the body strong and in good physical shape throughout a lifetime.

Types

• There are many types of bone health issues. Osteoporosis, according to MayoClinic, causes bones to become weak enough that mild stresses, such as bending over or lifting a vacuum cleaner, can cause a fracture. It is one of the most common health issues pertaining to bones in the body. Osteogenesis imperfecta, Paget's bone disease, bone cancer, and other bone diseases are caused in the body by poor diet, genetic issues, or problems with bone growth or rebuilding.

Symptoms

• Because bones are inside the body, it may be difficult to detect the warning signs of any bone health issue. For example, when osteoporosis begins, there is usually no pain or any other symptoms. But once the bones have become weakened from the osteoporosis, an individual may experience back pain associated with a collapsed or fractured vertebrae, a gradual loss of height over time along with stooped posture, and fractures of the hips, wrist, vertebrae and other bones.

Factors

• There are a number of factors that can increase the possibility that you will develop bone health issues. Women are twice as likely to experience bone fractures as men are. Age is also a factor because your bones become weaker as you age. Caucasians and southeast Asians are at a greater risk of bone health issues than blacks or Hispanics. Caffeine, tobacco use, and a lack of calcium in the diet play a significant role in bone loss and increased risk of fractures.

Prevention

• To prevent osteoporosis and other bone health issues, it is essential that you get enough calcium and vitamin D into your diet every day. It is recommended that you consume 1,000 mg of calcium and a minimum of 800 international units of vitamin D every day. Also, exercising regularly can help build strong bones and slow down bone loss. Limiting caffeine intake and excessive alcohol (more than two drinks a day) is also beneficial to the health of your bones.