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About Bone Strengthening

Osteoporosis is a frightening condition for the elderly that can rob them of their quality of life and potentially cause injuries. Drug treatments are available, but many individuals choose natural ways of strengthening bones in order to avoid harmful side effects and increased toxicity within the body. These natural methods are not only effective but are also part of a healthy lifestyle.

  1. Osteoporosis

    • Osteoporosis is a disease that results in fragile bones. This is a very common disease for those over 70 and can result in discomfort, severe injury and even death. This is a disease that commonly affects physically inactive smokers and drinkers who have a low calcium intake.

    Prevention/Solution

    • In women, hormone therapy can increase estrogen which helps preserve bone strength. Both men and women should avoid drinking and smoking. Those who exercise and keep a healthy body weight are far less likely to have weakened bones. A healthy lifestyle with balanced meals rich in calcium can prevent bones from weakening.

    Calcium Intake

    • Dairy products such as milk, yogurt and most cheese contain plenty of calcium. Consumers should check the calcium content of the cheeses that they buy. Vegetables can also be a good source of calcium. This includes tofu, spinach, beans, broccoli, peas, sesame seeds and almonds. Salmon and sardines are fish that contain calcium. Also, consumers should look for calcium-fortified foods.

    Exercises

    • Many activities like dancing, outdoor hiking, Tai Chi and yoga can put gentle pressure on bones encouraging the body to strengthen the ligaments around them, which can reduce stress to the bones. Carrying moderately heavy objects and stair climbing also help by forcing your body to work against gravity.

    Medication

    • Osteoclasts absorb bone and osteoblasts create bone. These two tissues are responsible for regulating how much the human bones grow. Pharmacologists have created bisphosphonates which inhibit osteoclasts, slowing down the loss of bone. But these medications have side effects such as blindness, bone pain, heart problems and cracks in the bone that heal poorly and can increase the risk of bone fracture.

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