How to Prevent Osteoporosis

There are an estimated 44 million people who either have osteoporosis or are at risk for developing osteoporosis courtesy of low bone density. If you already have the condition there are many successful treatments out there that can help you live as normal a life as possible. If you suffer from lone bone density, are at risk of developing osteoporosis for other reasons or just want to cut the disease off at the pass, here's what today's medical professionals are saying about ways to prevent osteoporosis.

What Causes Osteoporosis?

Before you can understand how to prevent osteoporosis you have to understand what causes it in the first place. There are many, many factors that can contribute to the development of osteoporosis. A lack of calcium and vitamin D, both nutrients that contribute to healthy bone development, can contribute to bone loss and is probably the most widely advertised cause of the disease. Studies show, however, that the leading cause of osteoporosis is actually a lack of certain hormones in the body responsible for maintaining healthy bone (namely, estrogen in women and androgen in men).

Overuse of corticosteroids, thyroid problems, bone cancer, certain genetic disorders, the use of certain medications, lack of muscle use and Cushing syndrome are also known to cause osteoporosis.  

How to Prevent Osteoporosis from Developing

The first step to preventing osteoporosis is to increase the amount of vitamin D and calcium in your diet. You don't have to go crazy (a gallon of milk a day is a bit excessive) but be sure you're getting at least your recommended daily allowance.

Next, exercise. Strengthening the muscles will help take the strain off your bones, contribute to overall health and help you cut osteoporosis off at the pass. Although the particular mechanisms are still unclear, and current research is non-specific, studies do show that increased physical activity, especially in the first decade of life, can lead to increased bone mass later in life.

Because hormone imbalance has been intimately linked with the development of osteoporosis it's extremely important that you begin hormone replacement therapy as soon as possible. Many people wait too long to make the decision, by which point the damage is done. Studies show that hormone replacement therapy begun in the first few years following menopause can decrease a woman's chance of developing osteoporosis later in life.

There are certain medications being given to individuals believed to be at a high risk of developing osteoporosis; however, these medications should only be taken under the close supervision of a physician. Medications currently being prescribed to halt the loss of bone density include:

·         Fosamax (Alendronate)

·         Actonel (Risedronate)

·         Evista (Raloxifene)

·         Miacalcin (Nasal Calcitonin)

·         Reclast (Zoledronic Acid)

·         Boniva (Ibandronate)

Osteoporosis can have a severe impact on your life; however, with the proper precautionary measures you can enjoy the same active, happy, healthy lifestyle you always have.

What about the Cost of these Drugs?