World Osteoporosis Day is observed on 20th October every year with an aim to spread awareness about the condition.
World Osteoporosis Day is observed on 20th October every year with an aim to spread awareness about the condition and educate people on ways to prevent it effectively. Osteoporosis literally means porous bones, a condition wherein our bones begin to lose density and strength. In osteoporosis, the rate of bone-degeneration outpaces bone growth and repair. While a host of factors may influence the development of the condition, persistent low levels of calcium and vitamin D may also lead to triggering the ailment. According to the official World Osteoporosis Day website, close to 9 million fractures occur every year due to the condition. The latest review of the global calcium map suggests many countries in the Asia-Pacific region, including China and India, to consume less that the prescribed amount of calcium daily.
A person should ideally be consuming 400mg of calcium every day, vitamin D intake is also important to ensure optimum calcium absorption. “Outside of North America and most of Europe, particularly northern Europe, there is lower intake of calcium than there should be for good bone health. In many parts of the world, a low average calcium intake may be putting most people at an increased risk of fractures and osteoporosis,” lead author of the review report Ethan Balk, Associate Professor at the Brown University was quoted by IANS.
The study appeared in the journal of Osteoporosis International and revealed southern and eastern Asia to record the lowest average for calcium intake (less than 400mg a day) while some North European countries registered intakes of greater than 1,000 mg a day. Most South American and African countries reported average calcium intake ranging between 400-700mg a day.
Is Osteoporosis a Disease?
Though it is perceived as a disease of the aged, osteoporosis affects our youngsters as well. If not suffering from it, some youngsters start showing the initial signs of the same much in advance.
During our 20s, we reach the peak bone mass, which is the perfect balance for growth of new bones and their repair. When we start aging, our body and health get impacted by our lifestyle. The balance between bone growth and breakdown gets disturbed which leads to a loss of bone density. Once it crosses a certain point, osteoporosis is diagnosed.
There are two main factors which contribute in the prevention of this disease.
1. A well-balanced and nutritious diet which copious amounts of calcium and vitamin D.
2. Regular physical activities and exercising in a planned exercise program which suits your body requirement. Weight lifting exercises are recommended. Though cycling and swimming are highly beneficial, they do not come under weight bearing and hence are not recommended here. And more than weight lifting, balance exercises help the most in prevention.
When you couple age and body inactivity, it leads to increased chances of bone breakage. It leads to increased number of falls leading to fractures.
Disclaimer: Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your treating doctor.
The views and nutritional advice expressed are not intended to be a substitute for conventional medical service. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
