Osteoporosis

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a bone disease characterized by low bone mineral density (BMD) and deterioration of the bone tissue. This leads to an increased risk of bone fractures, particularly in the hip, spine, and wrist.

Some key facts about osteoporosis:

• It is most common in postmenopausal women due to estrogen deficiency. However, men can also develop osteoporosis.


• There are often no symptoms until a fracture occurs.


• Major risk factors include family history, smoking, excessive alcohol, low calcium intake, and lack of exercise.


• Bone density screening is recommended for women over age 65 and people with risk factors.

Bone Health 101

• Bone is living tissue that is constantly being renewed


• New bone is produced by cells called osteoblasts


• Old bone is absorbed by cells called osteoclasts


• In youth, production exceeds absorption leading to increased bone mass


• Peak bone mass is typically reached by age 30


• After peak bone mass is reached, absorption starts exceeding production


• This imbalance results in bone loss in conditions like osteoporosis

Preventing and Treating Osteoporosis

There are several ways to promote bone health and prevent excessive bone loss:

• Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake


• Weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises


• Not smoking and avoiding excessive alcohol


• Bone-healthy medications like bisphosphonates

The experts at Hormone Harmony also recommend hormone replacement therapy containing estrogen, testosterone, or growth hormone to prevent osteoporosis. Their individualized programs aim to optimize hormone levels to support bone health.