World Osteoporosis Day is a time to recognize the symptoms of this common ailment and learn more about how to prevent and manage it. As one of the largest demographics of osteoporosis patients, seniors, and their caregivers can learn a lot during this day. In particular, you can pick up a variety of helpful tips for living with this disorder. In the spirit of World Osteoporosis Day, here are five daily habits for treating and managing it.
1. Dietary Changes
The things you eat can help improve osteoporosis symptoms by giving your bones the support and nutrients they need. Foods rich in iron, calcium, and protein are all helpful in building and rebuilding strong bones. Leafy greens, lean meat, and dairy products are common ways to get these nutrients, and they're all really tasty.
2. Outside Time
Sunlight is a major source of vitamin D for people. As vitamin D is necessary for the body to absorb and use calcium, this makes getting a good amount of sun essential in properly managing osteoporosis. After all, if your body can't process the calcium you're putting in it, then changes to your diet or supplements won't be helping you. Going for a walk in the park, a picnic, or just sitting in the garden are easy ways for seniors to enjoy the sun without getting too tired.
3. Avoiding Osteoporosis Risks
Common risk factors that can cause or worsen osteoporosis are things like smoking and excessive drinking. If you or a senior you know have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, this would be a sign to cut back or quit these vices. Not only is it shown to improve bone health, but you'll also potentially see many other health benefits, too.
4. Good Posture
One of the main signs of osteoporosis is a change in posture, frequently manifesting as slouching. Slouching is already bad for your back, but when it's paired with osteoporosis, it makes it even worse. As simple as it may sound, having a good posture can help to safeguard a senior's back from osteoporosis-related damage. Sitting up straight subtly works back muscles and keeps vertebrae in good condition, helping to prevent falling and general weakness.
5. Exercise
Everyone knows that exercise comes with a whole host of health benefits, and this is no less true for osteoporosis patients. Staying active will help to build and retain muscle in seniors. This lessens the chance of falling and being seriously injured due to bone brittleness, which is one of the major risk factors of osteoporosis. Exercises that focus on the back and leg muscles are good, as weakness here is what tends to lead to falls.
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