Osteoporosis is an incredibly common issue that affects the bones of the human body, especially the wrist, spine, and hips. As we progress in age, our bodies become more susceptible to what is known as bone density loss. When an individual experiences an increased amount of bone density loss, they are at risk for developing osteoporosis. Unfortunately this disease is not only painful, but it also puts you at risk of fracturing or breaking bones from an incredibly minor trauma. With that being said, there are potential risk factors to look out for when you are looking for ways to prevent your body from developing this painful ailment.
The Unavoidable Risk
Unfortunately there are a numerous amount of factors that are relatively out of your control in terms of reasons as to why you may develop osteoporosis, such as:
Age: The older someone is, their risk of developing the disease is quite higher.
Sex: Women are far more likely to develop osteoporosis than men (1 in 2 women, 1 in 4 men).
Race: Individuals from Asian descent or white patients are more likely to develop osteoporosis.
Family History: If someone in your immediate family (parent or sibling) has osteoporosis, this puts you at a greater risk.
Frame Size: Women and men who naturally have a smaller frame are more likely to develop osteoporosis as they become older.
Hormonal Risk Factors
Hormones are an incredibly important component of osteoporosis as individuals who have too much or too little of specific hormones are more likely to experience the disease.
Sex Hormones: One of the largest issues to consider in terms of osteoporosis is if a woman has a reduction of estrogen levels when they go through menopause. In terms of men, there is a gradual decrease in their testosterone levels as they become older. When you have lower sex hormones, your bones become weaker.
Thyroid Issues: If a patient is experience an increased amount of thyroid hormone, their bones can become weaker. Generally this is a result of an overactive thyroid or when someone is taking too many medications for an under-active thyroid.
Dietary Considerations
One of the main risk factors that you can control when you are trying to prevent the development of osteoporosis is the food that you eat throughout the day. Make sure that you:
• Ingest Enough Calcium
• Receive Treatment for Eating Disorders
• Refrain from Cosmetic Gastrointestinal Surgery
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