It is estimated that more than 200 million people across the globe suffer from osteoporosis. Approximately 30% of all postmenopausal ladies have osteoporosis. Dr S M Akerkar, consultant rheumatologist, stresses that brisk walking is one of the best and safest exercise for strengthening the bones.

What is Osteoporosis?

Simply speaking osteoporosis means – ‘porous’ or brittle bones. They are less dense when compared to a normal bone, hence weak and more likely to fracture. Osteoporotic fractures are common in wrist, hip and spine.

Believe it or not people who are thin and underweight are not always healthy and free of illness. They can struggle to put on weight. Our nutritionist Kohila Govindaraju shares tips on healthy meal plan to gain weight. This is also important as people age and lose weight.

What causes osteoporosis

Limited formation of bone early in life, or loss of bone structure later in life leads to osteoporosis. The factors that help in bone growth during youth affect bone mass during the adult years, particularly the following:

• Poor calcium intake 

• Poor absorption of calcium from the gut

• Reproductive calcium intake, i.e., the amount of calcium utilized by the body in women

• Vitamin D deficiency

• Lack of physical activity

Different types of osteoporosis

• Primary: This is a common type of osteoporosis associated with increase in age, improper diet and lack of physical activities.

• Secondary: This is bone loss that occurs due to the use of certain medications.

• Juvenile osteoporosis: This is rare. It occurs during the ages when bone growth is rapid, ie in the ages 8-14years. 

Different stages of the condition