8 superfoods that help manage osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a health condition that weakens the bones in the body, making them delicate. As a result, the bones become prone to injuries, and subsequently, fractures. But the good news is that despite the severity of osteoporosis, medical treatments can help curb its symptoms. There is also evidence that combining medical treatments with healthy foods reduces the condition’s impact. So, here are a few foods that help manage osteoporosis and increase bone density.
Dairy
Products like yogurt, cheese, and milk are loaded with calcium, one of the primary nutrients that complement bone strength and structure. Other products like soy milk, almond milk, and tofu are also fortified with calcium and work wonders to improve bone health. These are also suitable alternatives for those suffering from lactose intolerance.
Dark green veggies
Dark green vegetables like kale, spinach, Brussels sprouts, turnip greens, cabbage, and collards are stuffed with calcium. Some of these foods are even rich in vitamin K and magnesium. Together, these help manage osteoporosis.
Fruits
Certain fruits like figs and kiwis contain high levels of vitamins A, C, and K. These nutrients help boost bone density. Other fruits like bananas, oranges, and papayas have significant amounts of potassium that ward off the growth of acid in the bones, protecting them from losing calcium.
Eggs
Eggs are one of the most healthy foods if had in moderation. They are also known for their ability to manage osteoporosis. Eggs have substantial amounts of vitamin D and regulate a particular calcium-binding protein. It, in turn, controls how and when the body absorbs calcium.
Fish
Fish like canned sardines and salmon are excellent foods for managing osteoporosis because of their rich calcium levels. The two fish, along with other fatty seafood like mackerel, and tuna, are stuffed with vitamin D – an essential nutrient that aids calcium absorption.
Nuts
Eating a handful of nuts every day makes for a great snack to promote healthy bones. Several types of nuts contain exceptional levels of proteins, fats, nutrients like calcium, and even magnesium. A one-ounce serving of assorted nuts like walnuts, almonds, pistachios, and pecans should do the trick.
Plant seeds
Certain plant seeds like flax seeds, sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, and chia seeds are excellent sources of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and polyunsaturated fatty acids. The seeds also come with omega-3 fatty acids and essential fibers effective for moderate cholesterol levels and other health conditions.
Dried foods and more
Apricots, prunes, and raisins are the best alternative for people who prefer vegan foods. These dried fruits are rich in boron that acts as a bone-growing property. Bread, breakfast cereals, and orange juice are other food items that benefit bone health and fight osteoporosis as they contain vitamin D.
Doctors may also prescribe Prolia® to manage osteoporosis symptoms.
Prolia® (denosumab)
Prolia® (denosumab) is a popular prescription injection for osteoporosis. It stops bone-removing cells and prevents them from making contact with bones and damaging them. Prolia® helps treat osteoporosis in women who are more susceptible to fracture and who are not responsive to other treatments. It is known to improve the condition in situations where earlier treatments were ineffective. Prolia® also helps increase bone mass in men. The injection is administered in people who will be taking corticosteroids for a minimum of six months.
Evenity®
Evenity® prescription is mainly suggested for managing osteoporosis among women post-menopause to reduce the risk of fracture. The anabolic injection helps stimulate new bone formation while simultaneously reducing bone loss. Doctors usually recommend two single-dose shots given each month for a period of one year. They also suggest an increase in calcium and vitamin D intake for the prescription to be effective during the treatment.
