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Health Conditions That Can Trigger Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a health condition involving extreme bone brittleness to the extent that the mildest triggers – such as bending, coughing, or a minor fall – can lead to a fracture. Such fractures typically occur in the hip, spine, and wrist. Although several genetic and environmental factors may contribute to the disease’s onset, individuals with certain health conditions are more at risk. This article lists these health conditions and elaborates on preventive measures.

Inflammatory bowel disease
Studies have indicated that patients with IBD, like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, are at a higher risk of developing vertebral fractures than others. Specifically, 18%-42% of patients with IBD are likely to develop osteoporosis. This risk is primarily because patients with IBD experience a reduction in bone mineral density (BMD), making them more susceptible to osteopenia and osteoporosis.

Celiac disease
Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition involving the body’s adverse reaction to gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. The small intestine facilitates the absorption of nutrients like calcium, which is essential for strong bones. Celiac disease involves inflammation of the small intestine, hampering the absorption of these nutrients. Consequently, individuals with celiac disease are unable to absorb calcium optimally and, hence, are at risk of osteoporosis.

Certain types of bone cancer
Individuals grappling with certain types of bone cancer are vulnerable to being affected by osteoporosis. This risk is higher for patients among whom certain cancers, such as breast cancer and lung cancer, have spread to their bones. In addition, patients with osteoporosis may be affected by the direct effects of cancer on the bone, as well as side effects of cancer treatment.

Multiple myeloma
Multiple myeloma refers to cancer of the plasma cells found in the bone marrow of the body. This condition typically affects the generation of new bones in the body, causing “osteolytic lesions” or soft spots in the bones. Multiple myeloma can also trigger excessive release of calcium from the bones into the bloodstream, leading to hypercalcemia and aggravating damage to the bones. Thus, multiple myeloma can trigger the onset of bone brittleness and osteoporosis.

Rheumatoid arthritis
Research has found a close association between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and the onset of osteoporosis. Individuals with RA have a 30% higher frequency of fractures than others, increasing their risk factors significantly. First, certain treatment options prescribed for RA may aggravate bone loss. Moreover, the disease triggers significant bone loss, making one vulnerable to osteoporosis.

Chronic kidney disease
One of the essential functions of the kidneys is to filter out phosphorus from the body. This function is often seriously compromised among individuals with damaged kidneys. Consequently, patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have increased levels of phosphorus in the body, which is associated with the depletion of calcium levels in the blood. Thus, patients with CKD are prone to the onset of osteoporosis.

Chronic liver disease
Liver cells typically regulate calcium signaling; therefore, patients with chronic liver disease are likely to experience calcium deficiency and increased susceptibility to bone loss and osteoporosis. Hepatic osteodystrophy is the type of osteoporosis and osteomalacia linked to chronic liver disease.

Asthma
Individuals with asthma are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis, particularly in the spine. The risk factor for these patients increases due to the anti-inflammatory treatments prescribed to them, which can cause problems with calcium absorption, triggering bone loss and osteoporosis.

Type 1 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is associated with several health conditions, including hyperglycemia, autoimmune inflammation, hypoinsulinemia, and vitamin D deficiency, which can accelerate bone loss and instances of vertebral hip fractures. Consequently, individuals with type 1 diabetes are prone to osteoporosis.

Vitamin D deficiency
A deficiency of vitamin D is associated with several bone-related disorders, as the vitamin is an integral part of the calcium-absorption process in the body. In addition, a lack of vitamin D can trigger softening of bones and increase one’s risk of developing osteoporosis.

Measures to prevent osteoporosis

Include foods rich in calcium
The body requires calcium for optimal bone density and bone health. Therefore, it is essential to include foods high in calcium, such as dairy products (if not lactose intolerant), soybean, green leafy vegetables, blackberries, and eggs, in one’s meal plan to reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Include vitamin D-rich foods
Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium absorption in the body. Hence, besides having calcium-rich foods, one must also incorporate foods rich in vitamin D, including oranges, swordfish, tuna fish, beef liver, cod liver oil, almonds, and carrots, to one’s daily meals.
Stay active
An active lifestyle is essential for good bone health and overall wellbeing. Specifically, weight-bearing exercises like walking, strength training, jogging, climbing, and dancing can help strengthen the bones and reduce one’s risk for osteoporosis.
Increase exposure to sunlight
Sunlight exposure can increase the levels of vitamin D in the body, which is essential for calcium absorption. Thus, it is a good idea to go for morning walks when the sun’s rays are not too strong and can help the body absorb vitamin D.
Limit caffeine intake
Excessive caffeine intake is associated with lower bone mineral density (BMD) and increased risks of hip fractures. It helps to limit one’s intake of caffeinated beverages, such as tea, coffee, and soft drinks, replacing them with healthier alternatives like fresh fruit juices, smoothies, and soups.
Limit or avoid fast food
Fast foods are loaded with trans fats and sugar, which not only increase one’s calories but also contribute to poor bone and skeletal health. Hence, limiting or avoiding fast foods and replacing them with nourishing alternatives is essential to prevent osteoporosis.

While some individuals are more at risk of developing osteoporosis due to existing health conditions, having wholesome foods, avoiding a sedentary lifestyle, and following a treatment course for the underlying health condition can help prevent and manage the onset of osteoporosis.

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