Tips to Help Prevent Osteoporosis
Feb 29, 2024 09:31AM ● By Chrysanthi Kazantzis, ND, MS
Bone is living tissue that is constantly being broken down and replaced. Osteoporosis, which occurs when the creation of new bone can’t keep up with the loss of the old bone, causes bones to become weak and brittle, sometimes to the point that a fall or even mild stresses like bending or coughing can cause a break, often in the hip, wrist or spine.
Osteoporosis is more prevalent among women, people over 30 (past our peak of being able to regenerate bone mass) and with lowered estrogen levels, thyroid problems, smaller body frames and a family history of having the ailment. Major associated symptoms can include back pain caused by a broken or collapsed bone in the spine, loss of height over time, a stooped posture or any bone that breaks much more easily than expected.
Maintaining bone strength as we age can help reduce the risk of developing the condition including consuming proper amounts of calcium—especially the absorbable form called Microcrystalline Hydroxyapatite (MCHC)—exercising and avoiding both being underweight and excessive use of alcohol and tobacco.
Other helpful nutrients include vitamins D and K, magnesium, boron, zinc, selenium, silicon, copper, manganese and collagen. Foods that can help support bone health include nuts and seeds, gigs, dates, apricots, leafy greens, sweet potato, okra, parsnips, seafood, blackberries and raspberries.
People can also consider undergoing lab testing for bone health—including the N-
telopeptide bone reabsorption marker that especially monitors vitamins D and K and magnesium—every three to six months.
Chrysanthi Kazantzis (Dr. Kaz) is a naturopathic physician, clinical nutritionist, reiki master, president of Rhode Island Association of Naturopathic Physicians and the founder and owner of Anasa Personalized Medicine, located at 245 Waterman St., Ste. 308, Providence, RI, where she is accepting new patients. For more information or to make an appointment, call 401-270-1742 or visit AnasaMedicine.com.
Osteoporosis is more prevalent among women, people over 30 (past our peak of being able to regenerate bone mass) and with lowered estrogen levels, thyroid problems, smaller body frames and a family history of having the ailment. Major associated symptoms can include back pain caused by a broken or collapsed bone in the spine, loss of height over time, a stooped posture or any bone that breaks much more easily than expected.
Maintaining bone strength as we age can help reduce the risk of developing the condition including consuming proper amounts of calcium—especially the absorbable form called Microcrystalline Hydroxyapatite (MCHC)—exercising and avoiding both being underweight and excessive use of alcohol and tobacco.
Other helpful nutrients include vitamins D and K, magnesium, boron, zinc, selenium, silicon, copper, manganese and collagen. Foods that can help support bone health include nuts and seeds, gigs, dates, apricots, leafy greens, sweet potato, okra, parsnips, seafood, blackberries and raspberries.
People can also consider undergoing lab testing for bone health—including the N-
telopeptide bone reabsorption marker that especially monitors vitamins D and K and magnesium—every three to six months.
Chrysanthi Kazantzis (Dr. Kaz) is a naturopathic physician, clinical nutritionist, reiki master, president of Rhode Island Association of Naturopathic Physicians and the founder and owner of Anasa Personalized Medicine, located at 245 Waterman St., Ste. 308, Providence, RI, where she is accepting new patients. For more information or to make an appointment, call 401-270-1742 or visit AnasaMedicine.com.
