Risk Factors and Osteoporosis

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Sometimes it’s difficult to reconcile the fact that choices made earlier in life can have far-reaching effects later. In the case of osteoporosis, there may be some choices in your loved one’s history that you need to ask about.

Smoking

Smoking can cause quite a few different health problems later in life, but it can also damage your loved one’s bones. The reasons for that side effect haven’t been established and not everyone’s body responds in exactly the same way, of course. Knowing that your loved one has a history of smoking along with other lifestyle choices, though, can help you to look for problems like osteoporosis much earlier than you might have otherwise.

More than a Little Alcohol

Alcoholic beverages, when consumed more than just a little, can have an effect on your loved one’s bones, too. Alcohol can remove some of the important elements that strengthen your loved one’s bones, such as magnesium and calcium. Over time, her bones can become weaker and weaker.

Malnutrition

In many cases, malnutrition may not be a choice. in others, though, such as in the case of someone with an eating disorder, the person may not realize how much damage is being done to her body. Consuming little or no nutritive foods can cause the body to sacrifice the nutrients that are stored within muscles, organs, and even bones. Supplements may help, but it depends on the extent of the damage over years.

Drinking a Lot of Soda

There’s a lot of debate about the health effects of drinking a lot of soda. Some studies point to phosphoric acid, an ingredient in most sodas, speeding up bone loss. Other studies point to the fact that people who drink a lot of soda drink a lot fewer healthier beverages, such as milk, that could help their bones. Regardless, drinking a lot of soda can be as bad as drinking too much alcohol.

Set up a plan with your loved one’s doctors, home care providers, and other family members to help her make the best choices possible now for better health down the road.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring home care in East Windsor, NJ or the surrounding areas, please call Independence Home Care today at 609-208-1111 for more information.

Teresa Sajkowski RN BSN CHPN

Teresa Sajkowski RN BSN CHPN

Owner of Always Responsive Home Care

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