Decreased bone density - Balance Hormone Institute

What is decreased bone density?

Decreased bone density, also known as osteopenia or osteoporosis, is a condition characterized by porous and brittle bones that are more susceptible to fractures. This happens when the body removes more bone tissue than it replaces over time.

Some key points about decreased bone density:

• It is usually caused by hormonal changes, aging, genetics, or certain lifestyle factors like poor nutrition and lack of exercise
• Women are at a higher risk after menopause due to declining estrogen levels
• Main symptoms are back pain, fractured or broken bones, loss of height over time
• It can be prevented and treated through weight-bearing exercises, getting enough calcium and vitamin D, not smoking, limiting alcohol, and sometimes medication

Diagnosing Decreased Bone Density

If you're at risk for decreased bone density, make sure to get screened. A bone mineral density (BMD) test can detect osteopenia or osteoporosis before fractures happen. This painless scan uses X-rays to measure bone thickness and density, usually at the hip and spine.

Treating Osteoporosis

If screening reveals below normal bone density, your doctor may prescribe medication like bisphosphonates or denosumab to help rebuild bone mass. Making lifestyle changes is also essential:

• Get regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercise
• Eat foods rich in calcium and vitamin D
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
• Reduce risk of falls and fractures at home

Need help improving your bone health? The caring professionals at Balance Hormone Institute offer specialized care for decreased BMD and osteoporosis, including comprehensive hormone testing, individualized treatment plans, and lifestyle counseling. Their integrative therapies can help strengthen your bones and reduce fracture risk, so you can live life to the fullest!

What You Can Do

Focus on building strong bones at any age through healthy habits. Make sure to:

• Do 30-60 minutes of weight-bearing activity most days
• Eat plenty of calcium-rich foods like dairy, leafy greens, nuts, beans
• Take 500-800 IU vitamin D supplements daily
• Build muscle through strength training twice a week

Detecting and addressing decreased bone density early is important to maintain strength and vitality well into your senior years. With a proactive approach that combines healthy lifestyle factors, monitoring, and expert care when needed, you can keep your bones resilient and minimize osteoporosis risk!

I hope this overview on decreased bone density and osteoporosis helps you understand what to look out for and how to promote bone health. Let me know if you have any other questions!