Osteoporosis: The Silent Intruder of
Health and Stability.
This is a condition that gradually
weakens the bones, so they become more fragile and
likely to break.
Picture a mountain, which is filled (undermined) with
caves. Eventually the superstructure doesn't have enough
support and "caves in". The problem is that this porous
mass isn't strong enough to hold up the body's frame and
tissue. So even normal daily activities can cause a
break.
This brittleness leads to pain, height loss, difficulty
in moving, deformed humps on the back, and can
eventually lead to permanent dependence. The bones most
frequently affected are the spine, wrists, and hips. It
is a normal side effect of aging, and will speed up as
the person gets older. Osteoporosis is labeled the
silent" disease, meaning that it can progress "in the
background" without symptoms, until it's too late to
prevent permanent damage.
At this stage, prevention is the best treatment. A
combination of both calcium supplementation and healthy
eating will ensure the adequate amount of calcium. For
supplementation, check for "elemental" calcium. Don't be
mislead by the total amount listed on the bottle. 1500
mgs. is needed daily.
So the question is "should I take extra calcium"? With
what we know right now, the answer should be yes". There
are lots of discussions about new drug therapies and
hormone replacement. For those of us who prefer the
simple, natural way to maintain our health, calcium
supplementation is adequate. Just make sure you include
vitamin D. Both are needed for strong bone growth. And
don't forget the weight-bearing exercises. Men are five
times less likely to get Osteoporosis, but after the age
of 52, it advisable that they, too, start calcium
supplementation.
April 4/02
Karin.
If you would like more
information on this topic, or if you would like to know
if we could help you get some relief, please
use
this link to ask your health question or
request more information on getting some help.
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Karin Henderson British Columbia, Canada (604) 463 8666
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