Six Bad Habits That Can Detract from the Strength of Your Bones
It's true that some patients have a genetic predisposition to osteoporosis that could make the condition difficult to avoid. However, personal habits also play a significant role in determining whether or not a patient will develop osteoporotic weak bones that could lead to bone fractures.
You can choose a lifestyle that boosts bone strength if you know you're genetically prone to osteoporosis and you want to keep your bones as strong as possible as you age.
The following are six bad habits to avoid that could detract from the strength of your bones if you don't correct them.
Smoking cigarettes
Smoking cigarettes is known to make it more difficult for the body to circulate blood. Blood carries vital nutrients throughout the body.
Adequate blood flow facilities the production of cells that form bone while also aiding in calcium absorption. Because it is a habit that hampers circulation, smoking will make it more difficult for a patient's bones to stay strong.
Not eating a well-balanced diet
A well-balanced diet can contribute to keeping every system in your body healthy. When it comes to preventing osteoporosis and osteoporotic bone fractures, taking in adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D is especially important.
Some research has also indicated that a diet that includes high quantities of fruit and vegetables along with low quantities of meat is also ideal when it comes to preventing osteoporosis.
Consuming excessive amount of alcohol
Alcohol can make it more difficult for the body to absorb many different types of nutrients. Therefore, those who consume excessive amounts of alcohol may have trouble absorbing enough nutrients to keep their bones strong.
Being inactive
Regular exercise boosts circulation and thereby facilitates the delivery of vital nutrients to the bones. Also, weight-bearing exercise can strengthen muscles and, thereby, take some of the stress off the bones that can aggravate osteoporosis or cause osteoporosis bone fractures.
Being overweight
Excessive weight gain can put added stress on the bones and aggravate osteoporosis issues. It's, therefore, important for patients to keep their weight under control.
Neglecting regular doctor checkups as you age
At doctor checkups, doctors can look out for signs that osteoporosis may be a developing problem in a patient. Regular checkups often involve examining hormone levels, and hormone levels can play an important role in the development of osteoporosis.
In particular, low levels of estrogen and testosterone can increase patients' chances of experiencing bone fractures and dealing with other symptoms of osteoporosis.
If osteoporosis runs in your family and you want to learn more about avoiding it, contact a local doctor's office, such as Radius, to learn more.