ARTICLES

PREVENTING OSTEOPOROSIS

Osteoporosis is serious medical condition characterized by gradual reduction of bone mass. Osteoporosis afflicts between 15 and 20 million people per year. Side affects can include a various aches and pains in bones and joints, a drastic change in posture, and an overall path to a weak and fragile body. The onset of Osteoporosis and the ensuing loss of bone mass can lead to increased chance of fractures as well. Bone mass naturally declines throughout a person’s life because of an imbalance of remodeling of the bone in the body.

Prevention of osteoporosis can be done. Proper nutrition and adequate hydration is key in helping combat the onset of osteoporosis. Also, avoiding caffeine and alcohol as well as many other drugs will help prevent the loss of bone mass. Research has shown that continued abuse of drugs, alcohol, and even caffeine will have a detrimental affect on the body in its attempt to absorb calcium. Additionally, calcium citrate should be taken daily in the amounts of 1500-2000 mg for women over the age of 50 and men over the age of 65. For women under 50 years of age and men under 65 years of age, 1,200mg of calcium citrate should be taken daily. A high quality multi vitamin with the following additional supplements may help prevent osteoporosis as well: Boron, 3 mg per day, Copper, 3 mg per day, and Glucosamine and Chondrotin as indicated on the label of any high quality multi vitamin. Additionally, for women, estrogen therapy has proven a highly effective treatment in maintaining bone mass.

Of course, strength training will make an individuals bones much more dense and stronger. Strength training needs to be done over a lifetime to help prevent osteoporosis.