Health Science | Preventing Osteoporosis and Promoting Bone Health

Bones have the functions of support, protection, hematopoiesis and movement, etc. Bone health is an important factor in maintaining human health and vitality of the organism.

Osteoporosis is a systemic bone disease characterized by decreased bone mass and destruction of bone tissue microstructure, leading to increased bone fragility and susceptibility to fracture.
The prevention and treatment of osteoporosis should be carried out throughout life. Adolescence, adulthood and old age should be concerned about bone health, to improve bone growth and development, to achieve the ideal peak bone mass, to reduce bone loss and to avoid fractures.

Major risk factors for osteoporosis

include insufficient sunlight, calcium and vitamin D deficiencies, excessive or insufficient protein intake, high salt (sodium) diet, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, excessive consumption of coffee and/or carbonated beverages, low physical activity, low body weight, and use of medications that affect bone metabolism.

Dietary habits are closely related to calcium absorption. Choose a balanced diet rich in calcium, low in salt and moderate in protein.

Exposure to sunlight is one of the cost-effective ways to promote bone health. It is recommended to increase outdoor activities in a sunny environment for 15-30 minutes to help the body synthesize vitamin D. However, it is necessary to prevent burning of the skin by strong sunlight.

Physical activity has a positive effect on preventing osteoporosis, and weight-bearing exercises allow the body to gain and maintain maximum bone strength.

Postmenopausal women and the elderly are at high risk for osteoporosis and should undergo regular bone density tests for early detection of osteoporosis. Patients who have been diagnosed with osteoporosis or are at high risk of fracture should undergo long-term, individualized anti-osteoporosis treatment under the guidance of a doctor to increase bone density, relieve symptoms, avoid or reduce the occurrence of fractures, and promote bone health.