What’s the deal with bones?
Why bone health matters, what happens as we age, and are you at risk? (Part 1)
Bones have been on my mind this summer following a routine blood test that revealed I was very low in both Vitamin D and calcium. I couldn’t quite believe this after the fabulous sunny weather we have had, I eat a high calcium diet and I exercise in different ways. Then my 3-year-old granddaughter broke her arm just above the elbow.
It made me think: how often do any of us think about the health of our bones? Probably not many, though we are hearing more about problems like osteoporosis that affect older bones. Fortunately, many nutrition and lifestyle habits can help build strong bones and keep them healthy over the life span. In this article I will talk about bones and risk and then next month (part 2) look at what you can do to give your bones the best possible support.
Bone is a living tissue that is constantly changing and renewing itself. Throughout childhood and early adulthood, we build more bone than we lose. By our twenties, we have generally reached our peak bone mass. As we get older, the balance gradually shifts and bone loss can begin to outpace bone formation. This means we start to lose bone density and strength, making bones more susceptible to fractures.
Osteoporosis:
Osteoporosis, which causes bones to become weak and brittle is particularly prevalent in women after menopause due to falling levels of both oestrogen and progesterone. It is more common in women because they tend to have smaller, less dense bones than men, but it does occur in men, often secondary to another health problem, due to decreased testosterone levels.
Did you know?
You can have reduced bone density without knowing it. Osteoporosis is often called a “silent” condition because there may be no obvious symptoms until a fracture occurs.
Are You at Risk?
Things that can increase your risk include:
• A family history of osteoporosis or hip fracture
• A previous fracture from a relatively minor fall or accident
• Being underweight
• Menopause and other situations involving reduced sex hormones
• Smoking
• Alcohol intake
• Low levels of physical activity, particularly weight-bearing and resistance exercise
• Some medical conditions affecting nutrient absorption or bone metabolism
• Certain long-term medications, including some steroid treatments
And importantly:
Having one or more risk factors doesn't mean you have osteoporosis. It simply means it may be worth discussing your individual risk with your GP.
As always know your numbers:
• Vitamin D
• Calcium
• Ask about your individual risk and whether a bone density/DXA scan is appropriate based on individual risk.
My patient little granddaughter had her cast off after a summer of no swimming, biking and climbing and is slowly getting back to normal.
Next month, we'll look at food, movement, strength, muscle, sleep and the everyday habits that can help support healthy bones as we age.
If you have any questions or want to know more about my services, please get in touch.
Carrie
https://www.carriecannonhealth.com/
