Osteoporosis Nutritionists and Dietitians in Gaithersburg, MD

Osteoporosis is a condition that involves the weakening of the bones as a result of decreased bone density and bone mass. People with the condition are at an increased risk of bone fractures and may develop other symptoms of the condition, such as a reduction in height, bone pain, and a stooped or "slouching" posture. Osteoporosis is much more common in older adults and affects both men and women, but older women who are past menopause are at the highest risk for developing the condition.

A loss in bone mass is a normal part of the aging process. Indeed, peak bone mass typically occurs in one's 20s and 30s and then begins to decline, as the process of building bones is outpaced by the breakdown of old bone. An individual's risk of developing osteoporosis thus depends on the effective development of this peak bone mass; however, there are additional risk factors that also affect the onset of osteoporosis. Women are at a greater risk than men of developing osteoporosis, as are individuals of white or Asian descent. Too high or too low hormone levels within the body are also thought to contribute to osteoporosis, particularly sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone; the reduction in estrogen levels within the body that results from menopause in women is one of the greatest risk factors for osteoporosis. However, other hormone issues, such as an overactive thyroid and elevated thyroid hormone levels, can also contribute to the development of osteoporosis, as can dietary factors.

Dietary factors can significantly impact bone health. Specifically, low calcium intake is a major contributor to reduced bone density, as calcium is essential to the building of strong bones. Vitamin D is also important because it helps your body absorb and utilize the calcium consumed from food. Being underweight or having restricted food intake, like in the setting of eating disorders, can also harm bone health and increase the risk of osteoporosis. Good nutrition and consumption of calcium and vitamin D, while important at all ages, are especially important during adolescence, when bones are growing at their fastest.

Foods high in calcium and vitamin D are often recommended for those with osteoporosis. Dairy products like milk and cheese are abundant sources of calcium, as are many green leafy vegetables like kale and spinach, tofu, and certain nuts. In addition, there are an increasing number of foods that are fortified with calcium and vitamin D, such as cereals, bread, and certain alternative milk products like soy milk or rice milk. For individuals with eating disorders, obtaining a healthy weight is an important component of reducing risk for osteoporosis. In some cases, medical professionals may recommend that people with osteoporosis, or those at risk of developing the condition, utilize supplements to ensure they are getting enough calcium and vitamin D to support bone health.