Osteoporosis mainly affects women in the post-menopausal period and is characterized by fragility of bone tissue, with high risk of fractures.
Osteoporosis is the consequence of a physiological process represented by “bone remodeling,” which affects both the cortical and trabecular components of bone. During growth, the bones increase in size, peaking during puberty. However, there are also other factors, such as physical activity, diet, smoking and alcohol consumption, that affect bone density. Amenorrhea, early menopause, and disabling conditions should also be added. A proper lifestyle appears to be essential to ensure good calcium and vitamin D intake, but also proper hormonal balance. Calcium intake is essential from the earliest years of life, especially during adolescence.
Tips dietary
Patients with osteoporosis should eat a balanced diet. Milk and its derivatives are very important for bones, as is TOFU. Vegetables account for a share of calcium intake, especially green leafy vegetables. As for grains, the calcium content depends on the milling and refining processes they undergo. Meat and fish, however, account for a smaller proportion of daily calcium intake. Water can be a fair source of calcium, considering its average daily consumption.
Vitamin D is required to promote optimal bone mineralization, which is mainly provided by the sun. Only a few foods , all of animal origin, contain significant amounts of vitamin D.
Source: Handbook of Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition by Franco Contaldo et al.
