Here are the myths – and facts about osteoporosis, by Liselle Douyon, M.D.:
Myth: Osteoporosis is a normal part of the aging process.
Fact: While it is completely normal to lose bone density while you age, that does not mean you can’t have good bone strength. Osteoporosis is a disease and can be prevented with proper nourishment, exercise and vitamin supplementation.
Myth: Only women get osteoporosis
Fact: About 2 million men have been diagnosed with osteoporosis in U.S.- that’s a fifth of everyone diagnosed with the disease.
Myth: Only older people need to worry about osteoporosis.
Fact: Building strong bones is something that starts much earlier in life – you’re never too young to begin thinking about building strong bones. Your bones begin building density from infancy through young adulthood and reach their maximum density around age 35. If you do not achieve maximum bone density by this time, you could be at risk.
Myth: Osteoporosis is strictly a hereditary disease.
Fact: Although women who have a family history of the disease have a greater chance of developing osteoporosi, there are several factors that can make you more likely to get it. Certain kidney diseases, vitamin D deficiency, some hormonal diseases such as thyroid disorders and Cushing’s syndrome, treatment with steroids for certain medical conditions and certain types of cancer can be attributed to osteoporosis.
Myth: Osteoporosis cannot be prevented.
Fact: Especially for those who start young, osteoporosis may be prevented. Make sure you have good nutrition, adequate calcium intake, exercise and sufficient vitamin D supplementation.
Weight-bearing exercises are effective for building strong bones. Activities such as walking, jogging, lifting weights and dancing are ideal. However, those who already have osteoporosis should avoid these activities since they could result in a brake or fracture. If you have osteoporosis and wish to continue such exercise, you should first consult your physician.
In addition, it is best to avoid smoking or heavy drinking as they can also increase your chances of developing osteoporosis.
Myth: Only osteoporosis medications can prevent future bone loss.
Fact: Medications alone do not help build bone. Although the FDA has approved certain medications to prevent and treat the disease, they have not been on the market for long and the long-term effects are still unknown.