Decreased bone density - Renew Medical HRT Clinic

What is decreased bone density?

Decreased bone density, also known as osteopenia or osteoporosis, occurs when the struts and plates that make up bone tissue become thinner and more porous over time. This leads to weaker, more brittle bones that break easily.

Some key points about decreased bone density:

• It typically develops slowly, over decades, as people age
• Postmenopausal women are at highest risk due to plummeting estrogen levels
• Risk factors include family history, small frame size, inadequate calcium/vitamin D intake, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and long-term steroid treatment
• Fractures are the main complication, especially in the wrist, spine and hip
• Preventative measures include weight-bearing exercise, calcium/vitamin D supplements, not smoking, and limiting alcohol
• Medications like bisphosphonates can help slow bone loss

If you're concerned about thinning bones or osteoporosis, the hormone optimization experts at Renew Medical HRT Clinic can help. Our personalized programs feature bioidentical hormone replacement therapy to restore healthy estrogen levels, customized nutrition plans to improve calcium and vitamin D intake, and targeted fitness recommendations to strengthen bones through impact.

Now, here are answers to some common questions about decreased bone density:

What are the symptoms of decreased bone density?

Unfortunately, decreased bone density often has no obvious symptoms until a fracture occurs. Some people do develop back pain, loss of height over time, or stooped posture as spine bones weaken and compress. Testing bone mineral density is the only way to diagnose mild bone loss before any painful or disabling fractures happen.

What food is good for bone density?

• Good food sources for bone health include dairy products like milk and yogurt to boost calcium and vitamin D intake; fatty fish like salmon that provide vitamin D; leafy greens like spinach and kale that supply calcium and vitamin K; and tofu, almonds, beans, sweet potatoes, berries, onions and broccoli. Talk to your doctor or dietitian about your vitamin and mineral needs.

How can I improve my bone density?

Some evidence-based ways to maintain and potentially rebuild bone density over time include:

• Weight-bearing aerobic exercise like walking, jogging, tennis
• Strength training with resistance bands, weights or bodyweight exercises
• Getting sufficient calcium, vitamins D and K in your diet or supplements
• Not smoking and limiting alcohol intake
• Prescription medication if bone loss is severe - talk to your doctor

I hope this overview on decreased bone density helps provide some clarity! Let me know if you have any other questions. And remember - Renew Medical HRT Clinic is here to help if you're dealing with concerning bone density changes.