According to an article in Osteoporosis International, nearly 10.2 million adults aged 50 and over have osteoporosis. And another 43.4 million are at increased risk for fractures due to low bone mass.
Osteoporosis, often called the “silent thief,” can progress without symptoms until a fracture occurs. These fractures then lead to serious complications, including loss of independence and a lower quality of life.
By then, the question becomes urgent: “Can osteoporosis be reversed“?
The short answer: not entirely. But the longer answer gives hope. In this article, we’ll look at what osteoporosis is and the steps seniors in Charlotte, NC, can take now to protect their health.
Can Osteoporosis Be Reversed?
Unfortunately, reversing osteoporosis isn’t possible. Osteoporosis, by its nature, is a condition where the bone density has already decreased to a point that can’t be fully restored.
Once your bones have lost density, they won’t return to their original strength. However, you can slow its progression and significantly reduce your risk of fractures.
Many people believe that osteoporosis is a condition that simply “happens” and there’s nothing that can be done about it. While it’s true that we can’t fully reverse bone loss, there’s a lot of progress being made in treatments and lifestyle changes that can help.
For example, a medical study published by JAMA Network found that certain medications like bisphosphonates and denosumab have been shown to slow bone loss, with some cases showing a slight increase in bone density. Though your bones won’t be the same as they once were, you still have the power to take control.
Lifestyle Changes to Slow Bone Loss and Improve Strength
While medications play an important role in managing osteoporosis, lifestyle changes are just as impactful. You have the power to make choices that can improve your bone health and keep you safe. Let’s dive into some main steps you can take as soon as today.
Exercise for Stronger Bones
Weight-bearing and resistance exercises are your best tools for improving bone density. These activities help stimulate bone growth and maintain strength. Some great options include:
- Walking or hiking is a simple, low-impact activity you can do around Charlotte to help keep your bones strong.
- Lifting light weights or using resistance bands can help maintain muscle strength, which in turn supports your bones.
- Tai Chi and Yoga focus on balance and flexibility, which can prevent falls leading to osteoporosis-related fractures..
Aiming for at least 30 minutes of weight-bearing exercise most days of the week can make a real difference. Don’t worry if you’re starting slow. Every step counts.
Nutrition For Osteoporosis Support
What you eat has a direct impact on your bone health. Key nutrients like calcium and vitamin D are essential for building and maintaining strong bones.
Aim for 1,200 mg of calcium per day (more if your doctor recommends it). Good sources include dairy products and fortified foods like orange juice or cereals.
Moreover, vitamin D helps your body absorb this calcium. Aim for 600 to 800 IU per day from foods like salmon or exposure to sunlight.
Healthy Habits for Aging and Mobility
Certain habits can either help or hinder your bone health. Smoking has been shown to weaken bones, so if you’re still smoking, now is the time to quit. Additionally, excessive drinking can decrease bone density and increase the risk of falls. Try to limit alcohol to no more than one drink a day.
And lastly, creating a safe environment at home helps protect you against tripping and falling. Make sure there are no walking hazards, and consider adding grab bars in bathrooms to reduce the risk of falls.
While making these changes isn’t a one-time effort, when done consistently, you help improve your bone health and overall quality of life.
Natural Approaches and Their Limitations
While natural approaches and lifestyle changes are important and can certainly help, they have their limitations when it comes to treating advanced osteoporosis.
As we’ve already discussed, exercise and proper nutrition are essential for slowing bone loss and improving bone strength. However, while these changes can strengthen bones and help prevent further deterioration, they may not be enough on their own, especially if the osteoporosis has progressed significantly.
There are various herbs and natural products that claim to improve bone health in seniors, such as:
- Red clover
- Soy isoflavones
- Strontium
However, the evidence is not conclusive enough to recommend them as substitutes for proven medical treatments. It’s always best to consult with your doctor before starting any herbal supplements or alternative therapies, especially if you’re taking other medications.
If you have more advanced osteoporosis or a history of fractures, natural methods alone are unlikely to be enough to halt the progression of the disease. In these cases, medications and professional care should be prioritized.
Other Senior Wellness Tips to Better Manage Osteoporosis
If you’ve been diagnosed with osteoporosis or you’re concerned about your bone health, one of the most important steps you can take is getting a bone density test.
Regular monitoring is key to keeping track of your bone health over time. A follow-up test every one to two years (depending on your situation) can help you and your healthcare provider keep track of how strong your bones are and your risk for fractures.
The sooner you can spot a decrease in bone strength, the sooner you can take action to prevent fractures or further bone loss.
Build a Stronger Tomorrow With Support
While the question of “Can osteoporosis be reversed?” isn’t a direct yes, the steps you take today can significantly impact the health of your bones tomorrow. While you may not be able to fully reverse osteoporosis, you can slow its progression and reduce your risk of fractures.
At TerraBella Little Avenue, we’re committed to supporting your health and well-being every step of the way. Located in the heart of Charlotte, NC, we offer a caring community where seniors can thrive.
Our scenic walking paths and nutritionally balanced meals are in place to support healthy aging that includes bone strength support. If you’re interested in learning more about how we can support your well-being, give us a call or complete our online form to book a tour.
