The body is continuously breaking and repairing the living tissues in our bones. As we turn older, the repair rate slows down, which can result in osteoporosis. This is a condition where bone density and quality reduce drastically. One of the ways to prevent or lower the risk of osteoporosis is by exercising and controlling the food choices. Given below is a list of foods that may reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Foods that help decrease the risk of osteoporosis
Foods containing calcium
An important nutrient to build bone strength is calcium. It also benefits heart functions, nerves, and decreases the risk of blood clotting. According to the USDA Food Composition Databases, dairy products such as yogurt, milk, and cottage cheese are rich sources of calcium. Other calcium-rich foods include dark green veggies like kale, collards, broccoli, turnip greens, canned salmon, sardines, nuts, and tofu.
Protein and magnesium-rich foods
While calcium builds strength, proteins help the bones gain the required levels of hardness. One should have a minimum of 15 grams of protein from every meal. Protein-rich foods include poultry, fish, eggs, beans, nuts, peanut or almond butter, and sunflower seeds. Another important mineral that should be added to meals is magnesium. Assorted nuts and some seeds are rich sources of magnesium.
Foods rich in vitamins C and K
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble element that forms on your skin after you have been exposed to the sun’s rays. It is important for calcium absorption and the functioning of bone cells. Vitamin C-rich foods include oranges, lemons, tomatoes, kiwis, and red peppers. According to research, women who have vitamin K deficiency are likely to get bone disorders like osteoporosis. Add vegetables like Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, turnip greens, collards, and cabbage to your meals.
Managing osteoporosis
In some osteoporosis cases, doctors may recommend lifestyle changes along with other OTC or prescription remedies. Here are some of the remedies that might be prescribed to an individual with the condition.
Evenity® (romosozumab)
Evenity® is commonly prescribed to postmenopausal women who could be at risk of or suffering from osteoporosis with a high risk of bone fracture. This is a sclerostin inhibitor that helps make bones strong. It is injected under the skin of the stomach, upper thigh, or upper arm, typically twice a month for a year.
One can use their health insurance to pay for this treatment option. Although Evenity’s list price is $2046.71 per month, most patients covered by a health insurance do not have to pay this amount. Medicare Part B covers most of the therapies prescribed to patients. One can also obtain an additional insurance cover, such as a Medicare Supplement Plan, to be compensated for the costs incurred for supplements and oral treatments like Evenity®.
Prolia® (denosumab)
PROLIA® helps manage osteoporosis in men and post-menopausal women who are at high risk of fractures. It is a prescription remedy that also helps increase bone mass in men. PROLIA® comes in a single-use prefilled syringe.
Fosamax® (alendronate)
This is a bisphosphonate used to prevent or manage bone loss in adults. Fosamax is typically prescribed to post-menopausal women. It also helps manage Paget’s Disease of the bone.
