Osteoporosis is a loss of bone density and bone mass. This increases your risk of fractures. Osteopenia is the stage that occurs just before osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis weakens bones, leading to an increased risk of fractures, particularly in the spine, hips, wrists, and ribs. Fractures can cause severe pain, disability, loss of independence, and even an increased risk of mortality in older adults.
Causes of Osteoporosis:
Age: Bone density decreases with age, and older adults are more prone to osteoporosis.
Gender: Women, especially after menopause, are at a higher risk due to hormonal changes that affect bone density.
Hormonal Imbalances: Low levels of estrogen in women and low levels of testosterone in men can contribute to bone loss.
Family History: A family history of osteoporosis increases the risk of developing the condition.
Lifestyle Factors: Lack of physical activity, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and a diet low in calcium and vitamin D can contribute to osteoporosis.
Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions and medications, such as rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease, and corticosteroids, can lead to bone loss.
It’s been found that people with osteoporosis have a much higher degree of calcification in the arteries and joints. This means a person has excess calcium, but it’s not going to the right places in the body.
When dealing with osteoporosis and osteopenia, we can’t just look at a loss of calcium. We also need to consider vitamin K2 deficiency and vitamin D3 deficiency.
Vitamin D3 supports calcium absorption, and vitamin K2 helps drive calcium into the bones. If you take vitamin K2 as a supplement, it may be best to take the natural form called MK7. Vitamin A (retinol) is another important vitamin to support healthy bones.
These essential vitamins for osteoporosis are all fat-soluble, which means supporting your gallbladder and liver is crucial. Bile salts can help support the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients if you have a gallbladder or liver problem. It’s also essential to have strong acid in the stomach to absorb minerals and trace minerals.
I would still take some form of calcium if I had osteoporosis. But I would also take these other nutrients. I would also avoid calcium carbonate, which is less bioavailable than other forms. Try to get your calcium and other nutrients from food.
Other important minerals and trace minerals for strong bones:
• Magnesium
• Potassium
• Zinc
• Copper
• Boron
Be sure you’re also consuming high-quality sources of protein and are exercising consistently to help with osteoporosis and osteopenia.
Comments