Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a bone disorder that develops slowly, characterized by weakened bones that make them fragile and susceptible to fractures. Some warning signs include loss of height, brittle bones that lead to breaks, compressed vertebrae, and a stooped posture.

The skeletal (musculoskeletal) system is the body’s central framework. It is made up of 206 bones, 80 are axial bones (head, facial, hyoid, auditory, trunk, ribs, and sternum), and 126 appendicular bones (arms, shoulders, wrists, hands, legs, hips, ankles, and feet), which gives us our shape, allows movements, produces blood cells, protects the external organs. Stores needed minerals (calcium and vitamin D).

Medically, osteoporosis is diagnosed primarily through a DEXA scan, which measures bone density and assesses fracture risk. Other tests, such as blood tests for mineral or hormone levels, may be used to identify secondary causes of osteoporosis. 

From an Ayurvedic perspective, osteoarthritis is primarily a Vata (air-ether) imbalance, resulting in weakened bones and potential bone loss due to dryness and depletion. However, Kapha (water-earth) can also contribute by causing irregular bone growth, and Pitta (fire-water) can trigger inflammation and loss.

Initially, the goal is to address the cold, dry, light, and mobile nature of Vata by introducing warm, heavy, moist, and stable qualities. Initial dietary considerations include consuming warm, easily digestible, and nutrient-rich foods high in calcium, such as dairy products, leafy greens, and sesame seeds, along with healthy fats like ghee, which aid in nutrient absorption. Additionally, incorporating warming spices like ginger, turmeric, and cumin benefits digestion and limits cold, dry, and raw foods, which aggravate Vata. Avoiding excess sugar, carbonated drinks, caffeine, alcohol, and salt, all of which deplete calcium.

Herbal remedies are designed to promote bone density and bone formation, reduce inflammation, and manage stress. These herbs include Ashwagandha, Shatavari, Guggulu, Shilajit, and Shankha Bhasma.

Lifestyle practices to strengthen bones include abhyanga massage, which nourishes bones and joints and improves circulation. Incorporating weight-bearing exercises and yoga poses that target the bones, managing stress through meditation and pranayama, getting enough sunlight, which benefits Vitamin D and calcium absorption, and getting proper sleep, which is essential for tissue repair.

A Few Notes / Considerations:

·     A diet should be centered on vegetables, particularly green, leafy vegetables, and plant-based proteins.

·     High-protein diets and spinach can inhibit the absorption of calcium.

·     Phytoestrogens, found in foods such as soy, beans, flax, and sesame, aid in calcium absorption.

·     Caffeine, soda, smoking, and alcohol decrease absorption and promote the breakdown of bone.

·     Fish bone broth, fatty salmon, and sardines boost mineral levels in the body.

·     Although dairy is high in calcium, it can be difficult for the body to digest and absorb.

·     Supplements are available, but most nutritional needs can be met with a proper diet.