Osteoporosis- The silent disease

Osteoporosis is a chronic disease classified as a reduction in bone mineral density or, bone mass and this increases the risk of fractures and falls. In 2022, 3.4% of people in Australia were diagnosed with this condition however, the percentage affected is likely to be more as there are many who are yet to receive an official diagnosis.

Osteoporosis is largely a preventable disease with populations over 50, especially women over the age of 75, those who with vitamin D deficiency, reduced calcium intake, low body weight, smokers, high alcohol consumers, low Oestrogen and Testosterone levels and excessive corticosteroid use increase the chances of developing this disease.

Women of menopausal age are at a higher risk of developing Osteoporosis. Why? It comes down to diminished Oestrogen levels. Oestrogen plays an essential role in the building bone by influencing cells called Osteoblasts. When Oestrogen diminishes, Osteoclasts, cells that contribute to bone loss become more prolific. This results in a reduction in bone density, over time.

Diagnosis of Osteoporosis is conducted via a bone density scan known as DXA. It is essentially a specialised X-ray. This is the only accurate way of diagnosing this condition.

There are two components of this condition.

Osteopenia- the precursor to Osteoporosis. This is where there is a reduction in bone density but not enough to be diagnoses as Osteoporosis. This stage can be very much reversed and its progression halted.

Osteoporosis- is when there has been a diagnosis of reduced bone density. This condition is very rarely reversed but its progression can be halted.

As a holistic practitioner, my role is to educate at risk individuals in prevention. There are known nutritional factors that can play an essential role in preventing and stopping the progression of Osteoporosis.

Quite often, calcium is given a bad wrap due to fears around its influence on the heart and arteries. Choosing a correct calcium supplement, improving dietary intake and dosing calcium appropriately can be very safe and an essential component for overall bone health. Using co nutrients (K2 and boron) will also aid in the absorption and utilisation of calcium.

Identifying deficiencies such as vitamin D or issues with the thyroid and parathyroid can also improve outcomes and prevent Osteoporosis development.

Supplements are great and have a therapeutic role however, the role lifestyle and dietary changes have on bone health cannot be discounted. It is these modifiable factors that have lifelong benefits.

A diet high in green leafy vegetables, nuts/seeds, wholegrains, protein, good quality dairy, limited sugar, alcohol and caffeine is crucial for Osteoporosis prevention.

Strength training should be conducted at least 3 times per week and under the supervision of a qualified physiotherapist and or exercise physiologist. Exercising in this manner, promotes bone building and strengthens the muscles to reduce the risk of falls and fracture development.

There is much that can be done to support individuals in the prevention of Osteoporosis. It’s never too late to improve your diet and lifestyle.