Osteoporosis is a bone condition that is characterized by decreased bone mass and deterioration of bone structure. It can make bones weak, brittle and prone to fractures long before the usual age of onset of these diseases. However, despite its seriousness, there are many misconceptions circulating about osteoporosis today, from oversimplifying the causes to exaggerating some of the risks associated with this disease.
In this article, we’ll go over nine common misconceptions about osteoporosis so you can arm yourself with up-to-date information about the truth behind this serious condition.
Misconception #1: Osteoporosis only affects older people.
Although osteoporosis is more common in older people, it can affect anyone, regardless of age. Studies have shown that some teens already show signs of bone loss due to poor diet and lack of exercise.
Misconception #2: Only women suffer from osteoporosis.
Although women are at greater risk of osteoporosis due to lower bone mass and hormonal changes that occur during menopause, osteoporosis can also affect men. In fact, men over 50 account for 20% of all cases in France.
Misconception #3: You shouldn’t worry if you don’t have any symptoms.
Unfortunately, early osteoporosis usually has no visible outward signs or symptoms, meaning you may not know you have it until it has caused serious damage to your bones – such as fractures or fractures. deformities – which can be difficult to repair later in life. Seeing your doctor regularly for tests and evaluations is an important step in tracking your bone health over time and spotting early signs of potential problems before they get too serious.
Misconception #4: You can make up for lost calcium by taking supplements.
Taking calcium supplements will help replace some of what may be lost during the normal aging process, but it cannot completely reverse or stop the effects of advanced osteoporosis once it has set in. . A healthy diet rich in calcium, such as dairy products, green leafy vegetables, nuts and fish, is essential to provide long-lasting protection against bone density loss throughout life.
Misconception #5: Dairy products increase the risk of osteoporosis.
Many people seem to think that eating dairy products increases the risk of osteoporosis due to their high fat content, but that’s simply not true! Dairy products not only contain high concentrations of calcium (which contributes to healthy bones), but also vitamin D, which plays a key role in helping our bodies to absorb and use calcium efficiently, taking long-term bone care.
Misconception #6: If you don’t smoke or drink alcohol, you won’t suffer from it.
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are known risk factors for osteoporosis. But many other lifestyle habits can promote its appearance. Such as a sedentary lifestyle without physical activity, poor eating habits or prolonged use of certain medications such as corticosteroids used to treat various diseases such as asthma or rheumatoid arthritis. This means that even if you don’t smoke or drink alcohol, you are still at risk if one or more of these other factors are present.
Misconception #7: Weightlifting causes low bone density.
It’s quite the opposite ! Research shows that weight-bearing exercises like weight lifting actually help protect against bone loss by stimulating the growth of new cells in active areas around joints. This strengthening effect allows the bones to remain strong and flexible well into old age.
Misconception #8: Bone health does not play a role in heart health.
Research has established links between weak bones and weak heart! Lower levels of magnesium, vitamin D, and other minerals that keep bones strong and healthy also tend to lower levels of those same minerals in blood vessels. Which leads to poor cardiovascular function over time.
Misconception #9: Osteoporosis cannot be reversed.
Although it is not possible to completely reverse advanced cases where significant damage has already occurred, there are treatments available today that effectively slow the rate of deterioration while helping to improve people’s overall quality of life. living with this disease!
By making minor lifestyle changes, such as eating more nutrient-dense foods and exercising regularly, people with mild cases can hope to maintain their current level of health well into old age. gold !
