Osteoporosis prevention should begin in childhood

Loss of bone density, fractures, and minor traumas are symptoms of osteoporosis, a disease that mainly affects women, limiting their ability to bear weight or perform routine efforts. But it can also appear in men at an older age, generally from the age of 80.

According to German Vassilieff, orthopedic doctor and traumatologist specializing in osteoporosis and osteometabolism, the first triggering factor is menopause. “Hormonal changes that occur in the female body increase the chances of incidence, the intensity, and the speed of progression of the condition.”

Aging, genetic characteristics, ethnicity, and the lack of adequate calcium intake are factors that can lead to the disease in the future. “In addition to harmful habits, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and emotional conditions, such as anxiety, stress, and depression,” adds the specialist.

Even if the disease appears later, the prevention of osteoporosis and other osteometabolic diseases should begin in childhood, when the skeleton is still forming. In this regard, the doctor recommends the intake of calcium and other ions, such as phosphorus and magnesium, to ensure bone tissue balance. “Adequate exposure to sunlight will promote the synthesis of vitamin D, which helps in the intestinal absorption of calcium,” he adds.

And how can we obtain these minerals? Basically, through diet, with the intake of options such as meat, milk and its derivatives, as well as dark leafy vegetables, fruits, and almonds. “Natural foods, steamed or baked, usually preserve more of these minerals,” says German.

Other options, such as sardines and salmon, in addition to offering a good amount of calcium, contain phosphorus, magnesium, and vitamin D. Mushrooms (umami!) also provide a significant amount of vitamin D, which facilitates the absorption of calcium by the body.

Prevention and treatment

Early prevention of osteoporosis also consists of preventive medical evaluations in order to, in case of a diagnosis, start treatment promptly.

“The diagnosed patient should seek a medical service specialized in the treatment of osteoporosis, so that the best therapeutic strategy can be outlined,” advises Vassilieff. The treatment is multimodal, “attacking the pathology from different perspectives, from lifestyle changes to drug treatments,” concludes German.