Top 5 foods for managing osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones of the body become weak and brittle. This is because the body is unable to replace old bone tissue with new bone tissue effectively. This condition does not cause many symptoms but may cause bones to be quite vulnerable to features due to lesser bone mass and density. When suffering from osteoporosis, it is crucial to take good care of your nutrition requirements to promote bone health.
Some foods that help in the management of osteoporosis are described below.
1. Nuts
Nuts are some of the most healthy food options for snacking, as it is rich in a large number of essential nutrients packed in a tiny little package. Nuts like almonds, pistachios, walnuts, and cashews help improve bone health, as they provide nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and protein that are all necessary to build strong bone tissue. However, these are also relatively high in calories, so it is important to exercise portion control while snacking on nuts.
2. Milk
Milk and other dairy products are definitely recommended for people who have osteoporosis if they aren’t lactose-intolerant. These foods contain a healthy amount of calcium and fat that help in building stronger bone tissue. However, it is essential to go for low-fat and unsweetened options that do not contain any harmful additives when going for these dairy products. Other dairy products may include cheese or yogurt.
3. Fatty Fish
Salmon and other fatty fish are quite beneficial for people who have osteoporosis because these fish contain omega-3 fatty acids that protect our body from illnesses but are not readily synthesized in our bodies. Such fish also contain vitamin D and calcium, both necessary nutrients for the development of bone tissue. This is because vitamin D helps in the effective absorption of calcium into the cells. Other foods that are rich in vitamin D include tuna, mushrooms, and egg yolks.
4. Fortified foods
If you are a picky eater or are allergic to certain food groups, it may be difficult for you to derive all the necessary nutrients from your regular meals. If that is the case, it is recommended to eat meals that are fortified with these nutrients. Such fortified foods contain all the necessary nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, essential for the body. They may include foods breakfast cereals, whole-grain bread, and fortified fruit juices.
5. Protein-rich foods
Foods rich in lean proteins, such as chicken, turkey, or fish, are primarily recommended for people who have osteoporosis. Proteins are necessary for building bone density and also for strengthening the muscles that surround these bones. This ensures that the bones are strong and protected. However, excessive protein consumption may cause a loss of calcium that must be replenished by consuming enough calcium during the day.
Medication
There are certain medications that doctors prescribe for osteoporosis. These medications help reduce pain and also protect their bones from fractures and bone loss. Medicines like Prolia, which contain denosumab, are prescribed to such patients and those with bone tumors, treatment-induced bone loss, or metastases to bone. Denosumab is a clonal antibody that helps in preventing the loss of bone tissue in such patients.
An antibiotic in the form of an injection is FORTEO® (teriparatide), which is used to manage osteoporosis caused by menopause, steroid use, or gonadal failure. It is also prescribed for patients who are at a high risk of developing bone fracture due to osteoporosis. FORTEO® is a form of parathyroid hormone that exists naturally in the body. It is helpful in strengthening weak bones and increases bone density. FORTEO® should be taken as per doctor’s instructions.