Conventional Remedy: Osteoporosis is a disease of the skeleton in which a deterioration in bone tissue increases your chances of a fracture. Risk factors for osteoporosis include early menopause before the age of 45 years; being underweight; having already had a fracture in the past; and smoking.
Having had a fracture, you have at least one risk factor and you may have others.
The good news is that it is never too late to do something about osteoporosis. Moderate, but not excessive, exercise helps to improve the condition. Stopping smoking is also important.
From a dietary point of view, you must ensure that you are getting enough calcium. Drinking calcium-enriched milk will help, while yoghurt, spinach and sardines are natural sources of calcium. You can also take calcium supplements. The recommended dose for post-menopausal women is between 1,000 and 1,500 milligrams per day.
I would strongly recommend that you visit your GP to discuss the many treatments available for osteoporosis. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has been shown to slow, stop and even reverse bone loss. One trial involving women in their 50s found that HRT halved the number of fractures. A group of drugs called Selective Oestrogen Reception Modulators are also effective in the management and prevention of brittle bones. Other treatment options include drugs called Biphosphanates, Calcitonin and Vit D Analogues.
Finally, ask your doctor about seeing a physiotherapist, who may prescribe an exercise programme to suit your particular needs.
Dr Muiris Houston
Alternative Remedy: Fractures Of The Wrist Are A Common Consequence Of A FALL, ESPECIALLY IN women over 60. Having a strong grip is related to the mineral content of the wrist bone. Squeezing a soft ball such as a tennis ball every morning and evening is one good exercise which can reduce the risk of fracture.
Good bone growth and health is dependent on many factors. Minerals such as calcium and phosphorus must be present in the body in sufficient quantities. Vitamin D is also essential for healthy bones and is dependent on skin being exposed to sunlight.
Prevention is the key, as increasing calcium intake later on will not restore bone tissue already lost by wasting. However, the rate of loss of bone density can be slowed down with a calcium-rich diet and some herbal supplements. Foods to include in your diet even before the onset of menopause include fish such as sardines and salmon, sesame seeds (present in hummus and tahini), green leafy vegetables, blackstrap molasses, figs, almonds, sunflower seeds and soya products (tofu, soya milk). Many of these foods contain higher levels of calcium than dairy produce. Heavy meat meals may inhibit calcium absorption and sugar consumption uses up the calcium so important for healthy bones. So it is best to avoid both.
Kelp (a seaweed) is very high in calcium. It can be obtained in liquid, dried or tablet form. Herbal sources of calcium include nettles, parsley, raspberry leaf, alfalfa (use sprouted seeds in salads), red clover, cleavers and dandelion leaves.
Medical herbalist Helen McCormack
The Irish Association of medical herbalists can be contacted at 091-638183
patientquery@irish-times.ie
