As you get older, your body undergoes many changes. Changes occur in your skin, your hair, you body shape and even your bones. As you age, your bones begin to break down faster than your body can rebuild them. This results in thinner, weaker bones and often, over time, in a condition known as osteoporosis. Osteoporosis can be a devastating disease if not diagnosed and treated properly. However, there are at least six myths about this disease that we will discuss.
- Many people think that osteoporosis is a normal part of aging. While it is true that it is normal to lose some bone density as you age, it doesn’t mean that you can’t have good bone strength.
- Most people think that osteoporosis only affects women. Did you know that a fifth of everyone diagnosed with osteoporosis is a man?
- Another myth is that only older people get osteoporosis. Your bones usually reach their maximum density around age 35. But in order to achieve that, you must begin building your bones at a very early age and continue to do so through young adulthood.
- Osteoporosis is an inherited disease. It is true that women who have a history in their family of the disease have a great chance of getting the disease themselves. However, there are many other factors that can contribute to one coming down with osteoporosis, such as kidney disease, vitamin D deficiency, some hormone and thyroid disorders, among others.
- Another myth is that osteoporosis cannot be prevented. If you start young enough, you can prevent osteoporosis with good nutrition, adequate calcium intake and proper exercise. Weight-bearing exercises and activities such as walking, jogging and dancing are good for osteoporosis prevention. In addition, it is important to avoid smoking and drinking as they can contribute to your chances of getting osteoporosis.
- The final myth is that only osteoporosis medications can prevent bone loss. As discussed earlier, good nutrition and the right type of exercise can go a long way in helping to prevent osteoporosis.
If you have never thought about osteoporosis, it’s never too early to start. Examine your eating habits and your exercise routine. Ask you doctor about osteoporosis and let them help you determine if you are ingesting adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D or if you need to take supplement. It is never too early to start thinking about preventing osteoporosis.
Donna is employed as an accountant in a large corporation. She has many interests that she pursues in her spare time. She enjoys reading, listening to music and watching old movies. Her latest endeavour is learning how to build websites. Check out her latest effort related to scholarship opportunities at http://www.scholarshipopportunities.net.
