Home : health : foods to avoid for osteoporosis : 12 Foods To Avoid When Dealing With Osteoporosis
12 foods to avoid when dealing with osteoporosis

12 foods to avoid when dealing with osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a bone condition characterized by loss of bone density and mass, which can reduce mobility and increase the susceptibility to fractures. Deterioration of bone strength could be a result of calcium and vitamin D deficiency or other health conditions. Timely diagnosis and treatment can help restore bone density and prevent further damage. Further, certain lifestyle and meal-plan changes can expedite the healing process. So, here are some foods people with osteoporosis should avoid:

Processed foods
Processed foods like store-bought burgers, pizzas, cold cuts, and hot dogs can deplete the body’s calcium levels significantly, damaging the bones and worsening osteoporosis symptoms. So, it is best to replace processed foods with healthy fat and carb sources like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Beans
Although beans are excellent sources of fiber, magnesium, and protein, they also contain high levels of phytate, which can reduce calcium absorption, weakening the bones. Adding different types of beans, including kidney beans, lentils, and garbanzo beans, to meal plans in moderation can be good for health. However, one should consider limiting beans to prevent further complications when dealing with osteoporosis.

Liver
Liver is one of the richest sources of vitamin A, a vital nutrient to facilitate healthy vision, a strong immune system, and optimal physical growth. However, studies have shown that an intake of over 10,000 IU of vitamin A per day can cause low bone density and lead to fractures. A serving of beef liver contains more than 100% of the daily vitamin A requirement, making beef, pork, and calf liver one of the key foods to avoid for osteoporosis management.

Caffeine
Caffeinated beverages like tea and coffee can interfere with calcium absorption. Research suggests that approximately 6 mg of calcium is lost from the body with every 100 mg of caffeine intake. Several studies also support the association between caffeine intake and low bone density. So, when dealing with osteoporosis, one should avoid excessive intake of caffeine.

Rhubarb
Rhubarb is rich in essential nutrients, including vitamin K1, vitamin C, fiber, and calcium. However, it is also high in oxalates, which can cause problems with calcium absorption. So, rhubarb (particularly its leaves) should be avoided when managing osteoporosis.

Hydrogenated oils
Here, hydrogen is used to chemically alter the components of vegetable oil, resulting in hydrogenated oil. This process of hydrogenation eliminates vitamin K, which is essential for calcium absorption in the body. So, one should choose non-hydrogenated oils to enhance calcium absorption and prevent the worsening of osteoporosis symptoms.

Sugary drinks and foods
Sugary drinks, especially soft drinks and readymade squashes, and sugary foods like baked items and chocolates, increase glucose levels in the body and reduce levels of calcium and vitamin D. So, those with osteoporosis must replace sugary foods and drinks with healthier alternatives like fruits, fresh fruit juices, and smoothies.

Salted snacks
Salted snacks like French fries and salted popcorn are directly linked to a surge in blood pressure levels, which can cause a drop in calcium and increase the susceptibility to osteoporosis. Unsalted snacks, dried fruits, unsalted popcorn, and nuts are good alternatives to keep sodium intake in check.

Red meat
Protein is essential for carrying out several bodily functions, including producing energy, secreting hormones, and supplying and storing certain molecules. However, excessive protein levels can cause bone problems. Further, besides being one of the richest sources of protein, red meat contains amino acids rich in sulfur, which can cause calcium deficiency and weaken the bones. So, red meat intake should be limited among those with osteoporosis.

Nightshades
Some of the essential nutrients in nightshade vegetables include vitamins A, E, and K, potassium, magnesium, and folate. However, studies suggest that these vegetables can cause inflammation in the body, leading to the onset or worsening of osteoporosis. Nightshades like peppers, tomatoes, and mushrooms should be a part of the meal plan, but those with bone-related issues should limit their intake of nightshades.

Mangoes
Mangoes are one of the fruits with the highest concentrations of vitamin A. As excessive intake of vitamin A can weaken the bones and contribute to osteoporosis symptoms, those with the condition should limit their intake of mangoes and juices, smoothies, and snacks that contain this fruit.

Breakfast cereals
Having a wholesome breakfast is crucial to kickstart the day; however, readymade breakfast cereals can be loaded with sugar, which can interfere with the process of absorbing calcium from the milk and eventually contribute to weak bones. To prevent the development or worsening of osteoporosis symptoms, it is best to replace such store-bought breakfast cereals with wholesome breakfast options, such as rolled oats, boiled or scrambled eggs, omelets, porridge, and fresh fruit.

Managing osteoporosis
When dealing with osteoporosis, one must also opt for certain types of foods in their meal plans. For example, milk and dairy products (if one is not lactose intolerant), salmon, tuna, and leafy greens are rich sources of calcium and should be a part of daily meals. Further, the body requires vitamin D to absorb calcium, so one should also have vitamin D-rich foods like egg yolks, mushrooms, herring, and sardines.  Exercises like lifting, cardio, and aerobics can also help reduce the risk of osteoporosis or manage osteoporosis symptoms. One should stay physically active and avoid a sedentary lifestyle. So, getting up, stretching the legs, and walking once every hour can improve bone health and prevent bone deterioration. Avoiding fast foods and ready-to-eat snacks is also instrumental in maintaining bone health and preventing osteoporosis symptoms from worsening. Finally, staying hydrated is essential for the body to transport essential nutrients to the cells and boost bone health.

An appropriate treatment course prescribed by a healthcare professional, combined with a healthy and active lifestyle, can help prevent osteoporosis and aid the treatment process.

Top Reads

Top Tags

Popular Reads

4 easy tips to keep dogs free of ticks and fleas
health

4 easy tips to keep dogs free of ticks and fleas

A pet’s fur can be the perfect breeding ground for fleas and ticks. These pests can annoy your pet throughout the day. Such parasites can also cause several health problems like Lyme disease and skin infections in dogs and humans. Fortunately, pet care experts have developed several ways to rid these critters of your furry friend. Here are four handy tips that help with managing flea and tick infestations in dogs: Initiate a treatment plan If your pet develops a pest infestation, the first and foremost thing to do is get them on a treatment plan. Here are a few prescriptions that can be helpful: Bravecto® (Fluralaner) This prescription for dogs comes in two types: a chewable option or a topical solution. Bravecto is approved by the FDA and works on dogs and puppies at least six months of age who weigh at least 4.4 pounds. If you pick the chewable option for your pet, it must be given with their food once a month. Alternately, the topical solution must be applied once every 12 weeks. You can also check out special offers on Bravecto’s website for attractive discounts on their products. Simparica Another recommended treatment for fleas and ticks is the FDA-approved chewable from Simparica.
Read More

5 mistakes to avoid while using vacuum cleaners

Vacuum cleaners are one of the most reliable home cleaning appliances. With the help of the machine, cordless or corded, one can get rid of dirt, cobwebs, and allergens found around the house. The device is used for cleaning purposes, therefore, it is vital to handle the vacuum cleaner correctly for optimal usage. That said, not everyone knows how to use a vacuum cleaner efficiently. Below are the common mistakes made while using them: Failing to empty or clean dust bags and filters It is important to empty and clean vacuum dust bags regularly. Failing to do so can affect the efficiency of the vacuum cleaner. Despite vacuuming, if you still notice dust stains on the carpet or the floor, it’s an indicator to empty the dust bag. Another tell-tale sign for the removal of dust bag is when your vacuum cleaner seems to be losing its suction power. The frequency of emptying the vacuum bags will depend on how often you use the device. A full vacuum dust bag will lead to an accumulation of dust and the breeding of bacteria and germs in the bag. Many latest models are equipped with disposable bags that are much more convenient.
Home

Eczema – 3 methods to manage its symptoms

Eczema has many different stages and types. Unfortunately, about 10.1 percent of people in the country have some or the other form of this condition. Such a disease is a combination of conditions that make the skin irritated or inflamed. With proper treatment, one can manage symptoms. Red, dry, cracked, and leathery skin are the common eczema signs. Here are three useful methods that help deal with eczema and manage its symptoms: Getting the right treatment options Here are some treatments associated with eczema. Dupixent Dupixent is prescribed for children six or older and adults; for those who cannot control symptoms with other treatment measures, alternate treatments are not recommended. This monoclonal antibody works on a targeted area in the immune system. Dupixent comes in pre-filled single-dose pens and syringes, given as a subcutaneous injection. One can find this treatment option in two strengths: 300-mg/2-mL and 200 mg/1.14-mL solutions. Cibinqo This once-daily oral treatment helps manage symptoms for adults who have not seen relief with prevailing treatment options. Cibinqo is an FDA-approved treatment for adults with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis. Doses that can be taken are either 100 or 200 mg. Alternately, a 50 mg dosage is for patients with moderate renal impairment.
health

5 mistakes to avoid before bed for better sleep

Have you ever woken up feeling tired and lethargic despite sleeping for seven to eight hours at night? It could be due to poor sleep quality. Disturbed sleep influences the rest of your day: how you think, your performance at work, and other tasks. The causes of poor sleep are many, including a faulty mattress, distractions in your room, or a heavy dinner. Avoiding the following mistakes before bed can help you sleep better: Staring at a screen Using gadgets close to bedtime is probably the most common mistake in the digital age. The blue light emitted from screens affects the production of a specific hormone responsible for inducing sleep and regulating the circadian rhythm. Apart from the blue light emission, the television or mobile phone sound can be a distraction that keeps you awake. High noise levels create lots of mental stimulation and disturbance, preventing the brain from shutting down. Hence, it is advisable to avoid using phones, televisions, and laptops for at least an hour before bed. Exercising Exercise is among the best solutions for good health, but you must do it at the right time. Physical activity late in the evening or at night hampers sleep patterns by increasing stress and raising body temperature.
health

Migraine – Ways to manage the condition

Migraine headaches are a devitalizing experience. It completely saps the person of energy and prevents them from being productive during these episodes. There is usually a build-up to a migraine attack which is different for every individual. The phase before the actual migraine attack is known as the aura, and people may report seeing flashes of light or experiencing a tingling sensation. Below are some options for treating migraine headaches: Treatment options Nurtec Nurtec is a treatment option that helps relieve some symptoms of migraines. It reduces the severity of headaches and sensitivity to light. Nurtec is usually taken on alternate days to prevent migraines and other pain associated with the condition. Ubrelvy Ubrelvy, a fast pain-relief, is a treatment option that blocks calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in the body. CGRP is associated with migraine attacks, and suppressing it goes a long way in treating the condition.  Excedrin This pain reliever does not just treat migraine headaches but also pain in other parts of the body. Excedrin provides fast pain relief to the patient. Qulipta Qulipta is a treatment option that helps prevent migraines over a more extended period. However, medical professionals do not recommend this treatment option to people suffering from kidney or liver problems.
health