Bones make up the entire skeletal structure that supports the body. Conditions like osteoporosis can result in bone health deterioration and increase the risk of fractures significantly. Since it is a progressive disorder, the symptoms only get worse with increasing age. This condition cannot be fully treated. At best, changes in daily food habits, home remedies, and prescription medications like Prolia® or Evenity® can help improve quality of life. Listed below are few important things to remember while managing osteoporosis symptoms.
Foods for calcium
Calcium is a crucial nutrient required to maintain bone health. It helps build new bones and prevents bone mineral density loss. Research suggests that adults must get at least 700mg of calcium per day. Greens and leafy vegetables are a natural source of calcium. Popular choices include broccoli, kale, okra, Chinese cabbage, mustard greens, dandelion greens, collard greens, and turnip greens. Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are also loaded with the nutrient. Those who are lactose intolerant can get their calcium requirement from soya beans, tofu, and soya drinks. Sardines and salmon are other good sources of calcium. These foods combined with medications like Prolia® can help manage osteoporosis symptoms in the long run.
Foods rich in Vitamin D
Vitamin D helps the body better absorb calcium directly from nutritional and organic grown foods. It is possible to get some vitamin D from sunlight but the rest must be supplemented with daily foods. Fortified dairy products contain a healthy concentrate of vitamin D. Fatty fish like tuna, salmon, and mackerel are great seafood options. Research indicates full grown adults need at least 10 micrograms of Vitamin D. Certain types of breakfast foods, breads, snacks, juices, soy milk, and rice milk are also fortified with this vitamin for daily intake.
Other essential nutrients
Magnesium (for increasing bone strength), potassium, and Vitamins C and K (for reducing risk of fracture) are all essential bone building nutrients. One must also consume high calorie and starchy foods such as spinach, beet greens, artichokes, plantains, potatoes, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, red and green peppers, oranges, grapefruits, strawberries, papayas and bananas. Assorted nuts and legumes are rich in these nutrients and also loaded with fiber, which is beneficial for bone health.
Vegan foods
Vegans cannot rely on meats and dairy to supplement their daily nutrition requirements necessary for healthy bones. Popular alternatives include fortified sources of calcium derived from soya, rice, oatmeal, tofu, and pulses. Some condiments including sesame seeds and tahini can also be included with daily foods. Raisins, figs, prunes, and dried apricots are rich in calcium. Since most vegan foods do not have fortified sources of vitamin D, it is necessary to include certain supplements as directed by a nutritionist.
Medications for osteoporosis
Most osteoporosis symptoms can be managed with healthy changes in food habits supplemented with the following medications:
Prolia®
Prolia® helps women manage the symptoms after menopause. This injection is efficient in slowing down the bone removal process and prevents the development of bone removing cells.
EVENITY®
EVENITY® can help stimulate new bone formation. It inhibits bone-removing cells from reducing current mass and density. EVENITY® is used to treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women, who are highly prone to fractures. Its main function is to increase new bone formation cells. EVENITY® is given in the form of an injection. Doctors administer two shots consecutively in a month. One should avoid EVENITY® if they have low blood calcium. Patients should also be cautious of side effects like allergic reactions, jaw bone issues, and headaches.