Bone is living tissue that is constantly breaking down and replaced. Osteoporosis occurs when the creation of new bone does not keep up with the loss of old bone. It causes bones to become weak and brittle, to the extent that a fall or even mild stresses such as bending over or coughing can cause a break. Osteoporosis related breaks most commonly occur in the hip, wrist or spine.
Bones are in a constant state of renewal. When a person is young, their body makes new bone faster than it breaks down old bone and bone mass increases. After the early 20s this process slows down, and most people reach their peak bone mass by the age of 30. As age further increases, bone mass is lost faster than it is created.
The likelihood of a person to develop Osteoporosis depends partly on how much bone mass they have attained in their youth. Peak bone mass is partly inherited and varies also by ethnic group. The higher the peak bone mass, the more a person has and less likely to develop Osteoporosis as they age.
There are typically no symptoms in the early stages of bone loss. But once your bones have been weakened by Osteoporosis, the following signs and symptoms may appear:
As the bone density decreases in osteoporosis, bones become brittle and more susceptible to breaking causing pain in the body.
Due to the bones in the spine (vertebrae) collapsing in the condition of osteoporosis, a loss of height can be noticed.
The weakening of the vertebrae, and eventual collapse or breakage of the same can make the afflicted person’s posture stooped.
loss in bone density makes the bones brittle in osteoporosis, leading to a higher chance of bone breakage.
Jiva Ayurveda offers holistic Ayurvedic treatment of Osteoporosis using evidence-based Ayurveda. The treatment plans are customised to target the root cause of the disease, and instead of just treating symptoms, they focus on holistic healing, balance and stability in totality.
Dietary Adjustments: Consuming a calcium rich diet by adding dairy products, leafy greens, fortified foods, fish & seafood and nuts & seeds, adding vitamin D sources such as fortified foods, fatty fish, and egg yolks, and including magnesium-rich foods such as whole grains, legumes and avocado can greatly improve overall bone health.
Lifestyle Modifications: Getting rid of habits which negatively impact bone health, such as smoking, alcohol and chronic stress will be beneficial in the management of osteoporosis.
Meditation & Yoga: Modified yoga asanas can improve flexibility and balance, enhancing bone health.
HACCP Certified Ayurvedic Medicines: Scientifically-formulated mixtures that help restore balance in the body and maintain emotional stability.
Ayurveda is India’s traditional system of medicine which includes the usage of herbs for rebalancing the energies in the body and improving overall health. In cases of degenerative health conditions such as Osteoporosis, where bone density decreases, specific Ayurvedic medicines are used which concentrate on improving bone density and contributing towards better bone health. Listed below are a few recommended Ayurvedic herbs which can help in managing Osteoporosis:
Raktakunda - known for its high silica content, raktakunda supports collagen formation in bones
Harad - rich in calcium, magnesium and vitamin D, harad contributes to bone health
Bichu Buti - it contains minerals like calcium and magnesium, promoting bone density
Haridra - known for its anti-inflammatory properties, haridra may support overall bone health
You should visit a healthcare provider for regular checkups and bone density tests.
No, Osteoporosis is not fatal and does not change your life expectancy. It can, however, increase your risk of more severe breaks or complications from a fracture.
No, Osteoporosis can not be cured, but your symptoms can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes.
Osteoporosis is not usually painful until a bone is broken, but broken bones in the spine are a common cause of long-term pain.
Figs are considered one of the best bone-strengthening fruits. Five medium fresh figs have around 90 mg of calcium and other skeleton-saving nutrients like potassium and magnesium.
Osteoporosis refers to weak bones. Osteopenia is another term, sometimes used to describe a less severe condition of weaker bones. Both are “silent” diseases because bone loss often occurs without a person knowing it’s happening.
Premature greying and/or balding hair have been proposed as potential markers for identification of persons at risk for Osteoporosis.
