Osteoporosis

Question 1

Define Osteoporosis

Answer 1

Osteoporosis is a skeletal disease in which the bones become porous due to an excessive loss of proteins and minerals, especially calcium

Question 2

When does osteoporosis develop

Answer 2

It develops when the breakdown of bone tissue occurs faster than the rebuilding does. Bone density and strength decreases. Bones break and become brittle. It usually happens in the hips, wrists and spine

Question 3

What are the main symptoms of Osteoporosis

Answer 3

Back pain from cracked or broken vertebrae
Posture worsens as bones and vertebrae collapse on themselves
Bone fractures happen really easily

Question 4

Are there symptoms in the early stages of Osteoporosis

Answer 4

No, there are no symptoms in the early stages. The disease is irreversible once you have it

Question 5

Why are women at a higher risk for Osteoporosis

Answer 5

1. Menopause decreases estrogen levels which prevents bone loss
2. This also happens in pregnancy. The fetus will also take calcium from the moms bones if it needs
3. Women have a lower bone mass

Question 6

At what age do bones start to break down faster than we can build them

Answer 6

After age 30

Question 7

What 3 micronutrients are especially important for bone health

Answer 7

1. Vitamin D
2. Calcium
3. Phosphorus

Question 8

What 3 external factors can cause Osteoporosis

Answer 8

1. Certain medications
2. Excessive alcohol
3. Smoking

Question 9

What are 3 general causes of Osteoporosis

Answer 9

1. A hyper active thyroid
2. Body form and family history
3. Excessive weight loss

Question 10

Other than Vitamin D, Calcium and Phosphorus, which nutrients are important for bone health

Answer 10

1. Vitamin C
2. Fluoride
3. Zinc
4. Manganese
5. Magnesium
6. Potassium
7. Protein

Question 11

What should you avoid in order to minismise your risk for Osteoporosis

Answer 11

1. Protein rich diet
2. Drinking alcohol
3. Smoking

Question 12

Why is Vitamin C necessary to prevent Osteoporosis

Answer 12

Vitamin C is needed to make natural collagen which is needed in bone marrow, it helps to build bone density

Question 13

Why is a high protein diet a risk factor for Osteoporosis

Answer 13

When protein is digested it releases an acid into the bloodstream. Calcium from our bones is then called to counteract the acid levels. This causes bone demineralisation which furthers the breakdown of bone density