Source: Wikipedia.org
Osteoporosis causes more than approximately 1.2 million bone fractures in women every year. 25 million women in the United States suffer from low-bone density caused by this disorder. Not all women are equally at risk for osteoporosis, however. Knowing your level of risk can assist with making lifestyle choices. Here are 5 risk factors for developing osteoporosis:
1. Are you a post-menopausal woman?
By far the greatest risk factor for osteoporosis is being a post-menopausal woman. Higher levels of estrogen in younger women assist with bone re-growth. When a woman goes through menopause, her resting levels of estrogen and progesterone are significantly decreased. This leads to an overall loss of bone density. Men are less likely to experience bone loss, as their hormone levels don’t go through extreme fluctuations with age.
2. Lack of weight bearing exercise.
Lifting weights does more than build a great figure; it keeps your bones intact. Your body responds to exercise by building up bone mass. Some women who have already experienced the early degenerative effects of osteoporosis have been able to reverse their bone loss through weight-bearing exercise. It is important to note that high-impact aerobics can actually damage your already delicate bones. A fitness specialist can provide a balanced workout routine for those who are interested in preventing or reversing bone loss.
3. A family history of osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis has been shown to have a genetic link. If your grandmother or mother had osteoporosis, you might be at risk.
4. Low body weight/small bones.
Most of the time having a slender figure is an asset. Unfortunately, women who are slender with a smaller bone structure are more likely to develop osteoporosis than their curvier counterparts. Some scientists believe that the human body responds to carrying more weight in much the same way it does to weight lifting. A naturally slender woman can compensate for the added risk by doing regular exercise.
5. A diet high in phosphates.
Sodas and some coffee products contain high levels of chemical compounds called phosphates. Phosphate binds to the calcium in your body, depleting and weakening your bones. Drinking as little as two sodas a day been shown to dramatically accelerate bone loss in women with osteoporosis. Substituting water, milk, juice, or green/red tea can be a positive step toward reducing your risk of fractures and osteoarthritis.
Bio: Alexis Bonari is a freelance writer and blog junkie. She is currently a resident blogger at College Scholarships.org. In her spare time, she enjoys square-foot gardening, swimming, and avoiding her laptop.
