Osteoporosis is a disease that attacks the integrity of the bone structure.  This can lead to bone weakness and eventual fractures.  Unfortunately many people don't know that they have this condition until a bone actually breaks.  While this may not sound very dangerous - a broken bone is easily mended, right'  In reality the fractures can typically happen in the areas of the back and hip.  A hip fracture can be very dangerous and usually requires surgery with a hospital stay, and may interfere with one's ability to walk without assistance.  In severe cases they can be deadly.  Someone with osteoporosis needs to take this condition very seriously, and everyone else should be doing everything they can to avoid getting the disease in the first place.



Getting Tested

Doctors today can do a simple bone density test for those at risk for getting osteoporosis.  This includes women approaching menopause, women with very small bone structure, and those taking medications that can cause the disease.  The bone scan is not painful or invasive; it is something like a full-body x-ray. 

Your doctor can also prescribe medications if you already have the disease or are at a greater risk for contracting it; but before that time, try taking a daily calcium supplement, exercising, and stopping smoking.  It is best to avoid getting osteoporosis in the first place.

Natural Treatments

The bones are made up mostly of calcium; taking calcium supplements is one of the best forms of natural treatments.  There are many reasons why the bones may have less calcium than they need to be strong and healthy.  Many times it's simply genetics and the way a body is naturally.  Some people may do certain things that leech calcium from the system, such as drinking large amounts of cola or other highly acidic beverages.  Acid of course wears away calcium from the body's system.  Smoking dehydrates the body and also damages calcium reserves.  If taking a calcium supplement as a prevention for osteoporosis it's important to keep in mind that you need adequate amounts of vitamin D as this helps the body to absorb calcium properly.  Most calcium supplements you purchase at the pharmacy also have vitamin D added; be sure to get one that does.

Believe it or not, exercise and weight lifting actually increases bone strength as well as muscle strength.  Increasing your physical fitness levels and adding some weight lifting can also help prevent osteoporosis. 

Other Vitamins and over the counter products you may want to consider and why are:

Calcium, Magnesium and Vitamin D supplied in high doses have shown to increase bone mass as much as 25 to 30 percent over a six month period.

Fluoride has been found to increase the bond density in older women.

Glucosamine provides cartilage nutrition for healthy joints.

Vitamin A is needed to promote healthy bones and teeth.

Vitamin E promotes the natural body healing mechanism.

Multiple Minerals are needed for healthy bones and teeth.

Boron is known as the calcium helper and assists calcium absorption and utilization in the body.

Always consult your doctor before using this information.

This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.