Aging is inevitable, but aging well is a blessing. Several genetic, environmental factors play an important role but these are not controllable. The bones are important for a basic human function of mobility.
So a healthy bone requires:
1. Good diet
2. Supplements
To broadly understand the concept of bone strength, I would like to use a comparison with RCC (reinforced cement concrete) to that of a bones structures.
In an RCC building, we require a skeletal framework of steel with cement. Inside a bone, the steel is represented by a bone matrix (proteins + bone cells+ water), while the cement is calcium.
We also require vitamin D, which is responsible for the absorption & deposition of calcium on to the bone.
SO THE LACK OF EITHER OF THE THREE (bone matrix+ calcium+ vitamin D). CAN DECREASE THE STRENGTH OF THE BONE.
In kids most often, the cause of fragile bones is due to lack of calcium & vitamin D, but as we grow older the problem is because of loss of bone matrix (steel framework). So invariably any amount of calcium (cement) & vitamin D won’t help the strength of bone.
HOW DO I FIND OUT?
The ideal investigation is:
1. DEXA scan
2. A blood test to evaluated vitamin D & calcium.
WHO ARE AT RISK?
1. Menopausal women
2. Men above the age of 60 years
3. AC to AC lifestyle (not exposed to sunlight)
4. Kidney or hormone-related problems.
5. Treatment with steroids & chemotherapy for cancer etc.
HOW CAN I PREVENT BONE WEAKENING?
1. Adequate calcium & vitamin D rich foods.
2. Exposure to sunlight (dawn & dusk) for the generation of vitamin D.
IF I AM OSTEOPOROTIC (fragile bone) CAN I BE TREATED?
Yes, surely under the guidance & consultation of your doctor your treatment will consist of-
1. Calcium supplements/tablet
2. Vitamin D tablets.
3. Bisphosphonates
4. Teriparatide
PS: calcium tablet & supplements do not cause KIDNEY STONES ☺.
Wishing you all a happy HEALTHY LIFE with WEALTHY BONES.