Natural Ways to Fight Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition where the density and strength of the bones are severely compromised. As bones become weaker, the chance of a fracture is very high. In most cases, there are no visible symptoms of this disorder till a fracture occurs. Did you know that more than 10 million Americans suffer from osteoporosis? There are many ways of treating it but aside from medications and therapy, natural remedies in the form of lifestyle treatments for osteoporosis can also help a lot. These methods can help you regain strength in the bones and the best part is that they are free of any side-effects.
Lifestyle treatments for osteoporosis
- Do not block your stomach acids
Due to poor food habits and the consumption of a lot of spicy foods, many people these days suffer from heartburn and ulcers. As a result, they are on acid-blocking medications for months on end. A lifestyle treatment for osteoporosis is altering your food habits and eating on time as per a schedule to prevent using these medicines. The problem with these drugs is that they reduce the production of stomach acid, which is needed to absorb minerals such as calcium and magnesium. Without it, your body is unable to absorb calcium from food. - Enjoy the sun
The sun is the biggest source of vitamin D, which is essential for the body to absorb calcium. If you notice, all calcium supplements come with vitamin D additions too. In spite of consuming a lot of calcium-rich food, if your condition is still not showing improvement, a lack of vitamin D could be the culprit. Enjoying the outdoors will help you get a healthy dose of sunlight, especially in the early mornings. - Consume a lot of soy
One food item that helps protect your bones and fight osteoporosis is soy. Soy has a compound called isoflavones, which is similar to estrogen and keeps your bones stronger. As a lifestyle treatment for osteoporosis, make soy a regular part of your weekly meals. - Cut down your intake of coffee
Did you know that every cup of coffee you drink makes you lose up to 150 mg of calcium through your urine? Calculate the amount of calcium you lose in a month’s time this way! One of the most important lifestyle treatments for osteoporosis is to limit the number of cups of coffee you consume and switch to green tea or decaffeinated beverages. - Eat a lot of green salads
One of the best sources of calcium apart from dairy products is leafy vegetables. Make sure you include a variety of these leafy vegetables in your meals at least once a day. You can make salads or green smoothies or even opt for a stir fry. If you go to a restaurant, make sure you add a side of salad to your meal to boost your calcium intake.
Osteoporosis is not a life-threatening condition and can be easily reversed with the right medication and smart changes. Make a note of these lifestyle treatments for osteoporosis and follow them regularly to improve your calcium levels gradually. Do talk to your doctor before following any new diet or treatment option.