Written By: Bhavyajyoti Chilukoti | Published : December 5, 2014 4:44 PM IST
Brittle bones, increased risk of fractures, joint pains, myalgias etc., are commonly seen in this age group, mainly due to altered vitamin D and calcium homeostasis. There is a solid need to replenish these in them. Bone densitometry studies, DEXA scans etc., can establish the degree of osteopenia, and some might need zoledronic acid and vitamin D and calcium, denosumab, magnesium, etc.
Osteopenia is a clinical condition characterized by bone loss and low bone mineral density. As the bone mineral density value decreases further, it leads to osteoporosis in major cases. The problem with this condition is that it shows no significant signs or symptoms and can be only detected with the help of DXA (dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry) test. However, it is better to know the causes of osteopenia to prevent its progression to osteoporosis. Here are top five causes of osteopenia or decreased bone density you should know.
Deficiency of vitamin D: Lack of vitamin D in the body hinders with absorption of calcium and phosphorus from kidneys and intestines. If these bone minerals are not absorbed, over time there can be decreased bone density leading to osteopenia. Here are top 5 food sources of vitamin D you should include in your meal.
Faulty metabolism: In some cases, there might be problem in bone metabolism, which in turn affects the absorption and use of vitamins and minerals by the body. Although there might be many causes responsible for this, diagnosis of bone density is the only option to know whether you are suffering from bone loss or not.
Certain medications: Drugs such as anticonvulsant, corticosteroids, chemotherapy and OTC pills like pain relievers and antacids chelate with important minerals like calcium causing unavailability of the minerals to the body. This is a reason, why experts recommend consulting a doctor before taking any drugs.
Malnutrition during pregnancy: It is during the last three months of pregnancy that there is transfer of high amounts of calcium and phosphorus to the fetus. Hence, lack of proper nutrition during these days by the mother increases the risk of poor bone health and low bone density in the child. Here are 10 superfoods every pregnant woman should include in her diet.
Diseases: In case you have a history of anorexia nervosa (eating disorder) or are suffering from cholestasis (a liver condition) or chronic kidney disease, the chances that your bone density is lowered is high. This is because, they cause problems in absorption of vitamin D and other minerals necessary for maintaining bone health.
Apart from these, there are few factors that increase the risk of developing osteopenia. These include
Age and race: As you age, your bones begin to lose minerals along with bone structure and mass. This usually occurs as a person reaches peak bone density at the age of 30 years. Age apart; people belonging to Asian and Caucasian race are at a higher risk of developing osteopenia. Did you know these tips for healthy and strong bones?
Gender: Females are at a higher risk of suffering from bone loss or low bone density than males. It is mainly due to the fact that as a woman nears her menopausal years, hormonal changes take place in the body. This is the reason why early menopause and post-menopausal women are at high risk of bone loss.
Lifestyle factors: Our everyday habits also put us at an increased risk of bone loss. This includes lack of physical activity, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, eating diet low in calcium and poor exposure to sun. Read more about 5 lifestyle diseases that are common in India.
Family history of osteoporosis: The risk of developing osteopenia is high (more than 50%) in patients with a family history of osteoporosis or low bone mass. Such people should consult a doctor when they reach 30 years of age and get their bone density tested.
All this said, with lifestyle changes, healthy eating habits and following the doctor s advice, a person suffering from osteopenia can prevent osteoporosis.
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