delawaretoday.com
The decrease in bone density that makes bones porous and brittle and more likely to fracture is called osteoporosis. Usually, it is linked to women, especially those in the postmenopausal stage. In fact, it is true that more women suffer from this than men, but yes, even men have a bone issue, that could range from osteopenia to full-blown osteoporosis. It is said that around 20% of the patients going through osteoporosis are men. But the reason why this happens to them is different from the reason why it happens to women.
Usually osteoporosis is not linked to men because they tend to work harder and do a lot of physical activity or exercise more than women do. Women also tend to live longer than men, so they are more likely to suffer from this bone disease than men.
When it comes to men, osteoporosis is linked to the deficiency of testosterone in the system. This may not make sense because one may ask how is testosterone linked to bone health? The answer is that it is because what the body does is convert testosterone into estrogen that is responsible for building bone mass. Though science doesn’t have the answer yet as to exactly how much of the male hormone is needed to prevent osteoporosis from setting in, what can be certain is that when a man is going through it, one of the main treatments for him is to provide him with medication that has testosterone as one of the main ingredients.
When it comes to preventing osteoporosis from setting in, men can start at an early age to live a more active lifestyle. Deficiencies in calcium as well as vitamin D are the other causes for osteoporosis. And it doesn’t take much effort to keep one’s bones healthy. A brisk walk for 30 minutes every day or so of the week is considered more beneficial for bone health than a rough workout in the gym that involves weight lifting. Additionally, walking in the early morning sun will help with the skin absorbing the vital vitamin D that will make bones stronger and prevent osteoporosis.
There are other conditions that are linked to osteoporosis. Taking medication for these other issues could have an effect on the bones because of the decrease in testosterone in the system. Always consult with your doctor and research these matters yourself to understand all the possible side effects of your medication. In fact, even smoking can cause osteoporosis and according to 10 studies conducted internationally, smokers are at a 55% higher risk of obtaining fractures linked to smoking as nicotine affects the bone cells, thus making bones more brittle.
It is imperative to lead a healthy lifestyle as soon as possible. Eating foods that are rich in calcium and vitamin D is important. One can take supplements for the same, but ensure that you consult with your doctor about dosage and the right kind of tablets for you. Exercise goes a long way as well. Hitting the gym is a good idea and especially when living in city areas, it seems like a logical option. But a brisk walk out the open, close to nature is an experience that rejuvenates body as well as mind. Going out in the early morning sun is recommended because this is the time that the rays are giving off a lot of pure vitamin D that will soak into your skin faster. Avoid any habits, like smoking, that one knows is detrimental to health, because you’re body needs to work at its optimum level even in later stages of life.
Liked the article about Osteoporosis And Osteopenia In Men and maybe have your own tips or stories that you would like to share? Comment below!
