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Women Wellness
Know 8 Alarming Causes Of Osteoporosis In Women With 6 Tips To Prevent It!
Osteoporosis poses a significant health concern for women, characterised by weakened bone health and increased fracture chances. It is often referred to as the "silent disease” which is characterised by weakened bones that are more prone to fractures. Several factors contribute to osteoporosis in women, including hormonal changes, sedentary lifestyle, certain medications and more. To prevent osteoporosis, women can adopt various strategies such as consuming a calcium-rich diet, engaging in weight-bearing exercises, ensuring sufficient vitamin D exposure, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and more.
So, let’s discuss the noticeable and alarming causes of osteoporosis in females to help you make personalised preventive measures beforehand. Also, explore the prevention tips for osteoporosis in women.
Table Of Contents
1. 8 Causes Of Osteoporosis In Females
2. How To Prevent Osteoporosis In Women?
3. Dietitian’s Recommendation
4. The Final Say
5. FAQs
6. References
8 Causes Of Osteoporosis In Females
Note these causes of osteoporosis in women for better understanding and preventing it:
1. Hormonal Changes
During menopause, estrogen levels decline significantly. Estrogen help in maintaining bone density, but the decrease in estrogen production causes accelerated bone loss, increasing the osteoporosis in women.
2. Age
As women age, their bone density naturally decreases. This age-related decline in bone mass makes older women more susceptible to osteoporosis and fractures, especially after menopause when estrogen levels decline.
Also Read: Top 4 Multivitamins For Seniors That Can Help You Live Into Your Golden Years
3. Genetic Factors
A family history of osteoporosis or bone fractures can predispose women to the condition. Genetic factors influence bone density and structure, affecting an individual's susceptibility to osteoporosis later in life.
4. Nutritional Deficiencies
Calcium and vitamin D are required essential nutrients for maintaining bone health. Inadequate intake of these nutrients can weaken bones and increase the risk of osteoporosis. Ensuring sufficient calcium and proper vitamin D intake through diet or supplements prevents bone loss.
Also Read: Know 9 Multivitamins For Women To Fulfill Specific Nutritional Needs!
5. Sedentary Lifestyle
Lack of physical activity, especially weight-bearing exercises like walking, jogging, or resistance training, can decrease bone density and strength. Regular exercise helps stimulate bone formation and maintenance, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
6. Smoking
Smoking harms bone health by interfering with the body's calcium absorption and other essential nutrients. It also accelerates bone loss and reduces bone density, increasing fractures chances and osteoporosis in women who smoke.
Also Read: Grab Up These 8 Best Foods For Bone Health And Muscle Development
7. Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Heavy alcohol consumption can significantly impact bone health by interfering with calcium absorption and affecting hormone levels, such as estrogen. Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to bone loss and slightly increase osteoporosis and fractures.
8. Certain Medications
Some medications, such as corticosteroids used to treat inflammatory conditions, can weaken bones over time and increase the risk of osteoporosis. Certain cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or hormonal therapies, may also have adverse effects on bone density, predisposing women to osteoporosis.
Also Read: Follow These Recommended 7 Tips To Improve Bone Density Naturally!
How To Prevent Osteoporosis In Women?
Note these prevention tips for osteoporosis in women for reference:
Preventive Measures | Action Steps | Benefits |
Nutrition | It ensures adequate calcium and vitamin D intake through a balanced diet and supplements. | Strengthens bones, supports bone density, aids in calcium absorption, and reduces the risk of osteoporosis. |
Exercise | Engage in weight-bearing exercises like walking, jogging, and strength training regularly. | Stimulates bone formation, increases bone density, enhances muscle strength, and reduces the risk of fractures. |
Healthy Lifestyle Choices | Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption to preserve bone health. | Reduces bone loss, maintains bone density, lowers the risk of osteoporosis, and supports overall health. |
Bone Density Testing | Undergo regular bone density measurements, especially for high-risk individuals. | Early detection of osteoporosis, timely intervention, and further bone loss and fractures prevention. |
Medication and Supplements | Consider medication (e.g., bisphosphonates) and supplements (e.g., calcium, vitamin D) as advised. | Prevents osteoporosis in high-risk individuals, supports bone health, and reduces fracture risk. |
Fall Prevention | Implement fall prevention strategies such as removing tripping hazards and using assistive devices. | Reduces the falls and fractures chances, prevents osteoporosis-related injuries, and promotes safety and mobility. |
Also Read: Top 10 Benefits of HPMC Capsules For Health And Well Being!
Dietitian’s Recommendation
Changes that happen during menopause can severely affect bone density in women, and they are at risk of developing osteoporosis than men because of the hormones. If you don't know, then approximately one in two women over age 50 can experience osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis can cause calcium deficiency and weak bones, but proper exercise and management techniques can curb the severity. A proper diet can also reduce the risk by addressing hormonal imbalances.
Dt. Akshata Gandevikar
The Final Say
Ultimately, osteoporosis in women is a significant public health problem, but it is preventable and manageable with the right knowledge and action. By knowing the risk factors and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, women can strengthen their bones and reduce the risk of fractures. Healthcare providers, communities, and individuals must work together to raise awareness of this silent disease and support those affected.