osteoporosis

Osteoporosis Free: with Peruvian Coca Leaf..?

2008-06-14T11:26:00.000-07:00

The dramatic history of Gean Pierre, a Peruvian boy of 5 years, immobilized, left by science and in terminal condition with the disease of Pertes and recovered totally in few months, only enriching his foods with 30 grams daily of ground coca leaves, opens that possibility.

The miraculous treatment made in a Peruvian hospital by the nutritionist Maritza Vera, was encouraged by previous successes with other patients who cured themselves of diverse diseases like chronic anemia, depression, osteoporosis and until leukemia, only adding "flour of coca" (toasted and ground coca leaf) to their foods. The coca contains "reserpina" that regulates the pressure and forms osteoblast, for that reason acts in patients with osteoporosis, says Maritza Vera.Today Gean Pierre runs gladly, plays football and rides bicycle free already of the disease.

Maritza says the coca is a wonderful plant, every 3 months cures to you of some disease. She has been remarkable successful treating different diseases

It is not by chance that the plant has acquired a broad and diverse range of applications in the traditional medicine of the indigenous people. Its irreplaceable qualities have been demonstrated over time and throughout a vast territory. The coca leaf has established itself as the traditional remedy for treating physiological and psychological illness, and by virtue of its composition it is a powerful energy restorer for curing stomach and digestive ailments, alleviating affections of the larynx and vocal chords, preventing vertigo, regulating arterial pressure and the metabolism of carbohydrates, and even of improving sexual prowess. In his journal of 1794, Hipolito Unanue writes of "coqueros, 80 years of age and over, and yet capable of such prowess as young men in the prime of life would be proud of."

Peruvian Investigators affirm the low incidence of cardiovascular diseases in the “chacchadores” natives of coca leaves . Also the little frequency of osteoporosis and dental decays is well-known.

A very important study done by the Harvard University found that the coca leaf has a large amount of nutrients, more than other foods well known as strong ones.

Each 100 grams of leaf coca contain: : Calcium 1749 (mg), Phosphor 637 (mg), Vitamin A 10000 (iu)

In Peru the coca flour use is extending for the treatment of diverse diseases, mainly osteoporosis, arthrosis, gastritis etc. ENACO, (National Company of the Coca) sells "coca flour" freely, to cover an increasing national demand.

Coca leaf YES, cocaine NO

Coca leaves have been used for centuries as a stimulant. Pre-Incan Indians used the leaves to relieve altitude sickness (hypoxia), hunger and fatigue.

CONFUSION BETWEEN COCA AND DRUGS

Firstly, it is necessary to stress and distinguish the fundamental difference between chewing coca in the Andean setting and the unlawful use of cocaine in the West. In a speech made in 1992 before the annual Assembly of the World Health Organization, the President of the Republic of Bolivia, Mr. Paz Zamora referred to these confused and contradictory interpretations and observed that "coca is an Andean tradition while cocaine is a Western habit"

The innocuous nature of traditional use of coca leaves and the benefits for human health were proven with scientific rigor by the most extensive study of coca ever done. This research was carried out between 1991 and 1995 by the World Health Organisation (WHO)

The concentration of cocaine alkaloid in the leaf, is very low, and therefore, ingested in natural form, it does not produce serious toxicity nor it generates dependency. It acts like stimulating weighs, it improves the attention and the coordination of ideas; is something as well as to take a concentrated coffee

The Andean culture and the coca plant have thrived for centuries. It is ironic that this same plant that is used as a cure in its homeland is the source for so much abuse and misunderstanding in other parts of the world.

After years of management, ENACO (National Company of the Coca in Peru) has managed to give to a new impulse to industrialization and export of coca leaves. First, with the sale of "mate de coca" (tea of coca) a to South Africa and the United States and Switzerland; and also with the production of coca leaf extract that will be used like flavor in the United States. The own DEA guaranteed the sale to the United States

The Government of Peru would have to initiate extensive clinical studies, local and international to demonstrate scientifically the curatives properties of the coca leaf, that actually already are accepted by an increasing Peruvian population.

In Conclusion: Cocaine can be a curse for the humanity ...but the coca leaf can be a blessing for our health.

About The Author
Luis Quiroz Ravines is a Peruvian journalist, founder of the "World Movement of Direct Help to the Poor".

Bone Mineral Density - How To Detect Osteoporosis Accurately

2008-04-24T23:06:00.000-07:00

By Sharon A Bell

Few diseases can be considered as silent assassins; meaning, conditions that can slowly take your life without you knowing it. Osteoporosis is one such condition. Although this condition does not instantly lead to death like cardiac arrest, it can surely take away your lifestyle as you know it. One's loss of bone density can be difficult to predict and prevent just like that of cancer or diabetes.

With osteoporosis, you can go on with your life as if nothing wrong is happening to your bone structure. The only time that you will know you have osteoporosis is when you start breaking bones far too easily. In fact, this condition will not even render you any signs of physical weakness. What makes things more complicated is that osteoporosis shares the same symptoms with most other diseases; hence, it is easy for medical doctors to overlook the fact that you are already suffering from this disease.

Although symptoms like a steady decline in your height, excruciating back pain, and noticeable changes in your overall posture can point at osteoporosis, many people are still unaware about this condition until their bones actually snap like ice cream sticks. The key to preparing against osteoporosis, and other silent killer diseases for that matter, is to undergo diagnostic exams and early treatment procedures if you are found to be positive with the disease.

For osteoporosis, doctors offer bone densitometry to determine the density of your bones. This procedure, also referred to as bone density testing, makes use of a device fitted with double energy x-ray that can measure the rate at which photon beams are absorbed by a particular body part. The information that this machine can deliver measures your bone mineral density.

When your doctor knows what your bone mineral density is, your risk of having bone fractures and osteoporosis can be easily and more accurately studied. With the same information, your body's response to any ongoing treatment against osteoporosis can be closely monitored too. These results have made bone densitometry become the widely-accepted means of identifying the existence of osteoporosis in individuals.

Unlike ordinary x-ray machines where you need to experience a decline in bone density of at least 30% before the onset of osteoporosis can be detected, bone densitometry can provide you with an analysis regarding your future susceptibility to osteoporosis based on the present indications of your bone mineral density. This gives you a lot of time to prepare and take in necessary supplements to reverse the loss of minerals in your bone structure.

Apart from osteoporosis, a bone density test is often required by your doctor if you are in your menopausal stage wherein bone loss is often a symptom. If you had a bad fall and you had a fractured bone, bone densitometry can also help you check out the rate at which your bone heals and the effects of the medication that you take in. You must also remember that you become more prone to loss of bone density or osteoporosis as you grow older; testing your bone mineral density via bone densitometry becomes more imperative as you step into your forties or fifties. This way, you will be more aware about how to take good care of your bone structures.

Whatever results come out from your visit with your doctor, you must work to ensure that your bones have all the minerals they need to be strong and flexible. One way to go about this is to take in supplements like Osteozyne to increase the levels of calcium and other minerals necessary for your bone's proper functioning. For more details about how to improve the health of your bones, visit www.osteozyne.com/

Sharon Bell is an avid health and fitness enthusiast and published author. Many of her insightful articles can be found at the premiere online news magazine http://www.healthnfitnesszone.com

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Magnetic Therapy Treatments for Osteoporosis Sufferers

2008-04-24T22:56:00.000-07:00

By Debbie Shimadry

Osteoporosis, or porous bone, is a disease characterized by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue, leading to bone fragility and an increased susceptibility to fractures of the hip, spine, and wrist. Men as well as women suffer from osteoporosis, a disease that can be prevented and treated.

Osteoporosis is often called the "silent disease" because bone loss occurs without symptoms. People may not know that they have osteoporosis until their bones become so weak that a sudden strain, bump, or fall causes a hip fracture or a vertebra to collapse. Collapsed vertebra may initially be felt or seen in the form of severe back pain, loss of height, or spinal deformities such as kyphosis, or severely stooped posture.

The bones in our skeleton are made of a thick outer shell and a strong inner mesh filled with collagen (protein), calcium salts and other minerals. The inside looks like honeycomb, with blood vessels and bone marrow in the spaces between bone. Osteoporosis occurs when the holes between bone become bigger, making it fragile and liable to break easily. Osteoporosis usually affects the whole skeleton but it most commonly causes breaks (fractures) to bone in the wrist, spine and hip.

Bone is alive and constantly changing. Old, worn out bone is broken down by cells called osteoclasts and replaced by bone building cells, called osteoblasts. This process of renewal is called bone turnover

Magnetic therapy treatment for osteoporosis.

Magnetic therapy treatments for osteoporosis follow the same rules that apply to the treatment of arthritis. That is the magnets need to be applied as close to the point of pain as possible. The same devices can be used for osteoporosis: magnetic therapy straps, wraps, insoles, pads and jewellery. Because osteoporosis is predominantly found in the long bones (although all bones with low density can be affected) most major load bearing joints are affected. For this reason painful symptoms can be very severe as mobilising becomes extremely painful, to ensure the fastest possible result from magnetic therapy super strength magnets (2500-3000 gauss/ 250-300 m tesla) should preferably be used.

Fractures are very common with osteoporosis and magnets can increase the bodies ability to heal bone fractures. If you sustain a bone fracture magnets should be applied to the site of the fracture as soon as possible after the break. If the bone is in a plaster cast then it will not be possible to use magnets until it has been removed but as soon as the cast is removed magnets can be applied. They will increase the rate at which the bone knits together plus encourage new cellular growth around the fracture site.

Debbie Shimadry is as an expert guest on magnetic therapy for BBC Radios and is also the managing director of leading magnetic therapy company world of magnets. If you are interested in natural pain relief visit the magnetic article directory at magnetictherapymagnets.co.uk

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The Health Benefits of Vitamin D3

2008-04-24T22:54:00.000-07:00

By John Gibb

D3 is a fat soluble vitamin and excess amounts can be stored in the body’s soft tissue. There are two forms of the D vitamin: ergo calciferol and it is found in fortified milk, herring, mackerel, tuna, sardines, eggs, cereals and baked goods. The second form is cholecalciferol that is produced by the body when it is in the sun. The best source of vitamin D3 is the sunlight. The typical supplemental dose is no more than 600 IU (international units) unless approved by a physician.

Benefits Of Vitamin D3

Vitamin D promotes healthy teeth and bones in kids. It also promotes calcium absorption, bone mass, building, the prevention of bone loss, and it protects against muscle weakness. It lowers the risk of colon, breast, and prostate cancers. Immune system functioning is improved, auto immune diseases can be prevented, and rheumatoid arthritis is improved with vitamin D.

Vitamin D3 prevents/treats rickets, post menopausal osteoporosis. It also prevents falls and fractures in those at risk for osteoporosis, corticosteroid induced osteoporosis, and osteomalacia. The vitamin also treats hypoglycemia, bone disorders, psoriasis, squamous cell cancers, vitiligo, and scleroderma. Multiple Sclerosis can be treated and the vitamin prevents the development of Type 1 diabetes.

Vitamin D3 Deficiencies

Deficiencies of D3 in children are indicated by the presence of rickets, a disease that deforms the bones and teeth. In adults, deficiencies are indicated by the presence of osteomalacia, osteoporosis, type 1 diabetes, muscle and bone pain, as well as certain cancers. An overdose can lead to birth defects, coma, and even death.

The product we personally use called Total Balance - http://www.health-product-we-use.com is the best supplement we have come across. We have been using this supplement for over 3 years with excellent health results.

We highly recommend you take a further look in to our supplement of choice if you are interested in improving your overall health.

John Gibb is the owner of a series of health websites, check out natural nutritional supplements, to view the alternative health supplement we personally use with excellent health results.

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Osteoporosis Complications Can Change Your Life

2008-04-24T22:50:00.000-07:00

By Jeff Foster

A disease in which bones begin to lose their density leading to a significant increase in the risk for fracture bones, osteoporosis can lead to severe complications which increase both morbidity and mortality following bone fractures.

The older you get, the more at risk you are for bone fractures and for the development of osteoporosis.

With age bones begin to lose collagen, protein, and calcium all of which are responsible for helping to strengthen bones and to hopefully prevent fractures.

For those of you who have been diagnosed with either osteoporosis or even osteopenia you are at the highest risk for fractures related to the loss of bone density and strength.

These fractures can result from even the most minor injury. Osteoporotic fractures are known to occur when it seems that you are doing nothing at all.

Sometimes fractures occur with even routine daily activities.

This is the risk of osteoporosis.

Those most at risk for future osteoporotic fractures are those who have already suffered them in the past. Some research indicates that for postmenopausal women who have already endured a vertebral fracture in the previous 12 months will also experience a subsequent fracture in the coming 12 months.

That is a rather sobering statistic. It is for this reason that early and aggressive treatment and management of osteoporosis must be secured.

Osteoporosis is not something that is best left ignore or even under treated.

Aggressive treatment is necessary in order to hopefully obtain the best outcome.

With aggressive treatment and long-term management the hope is that you can significantly reduce your risk for more fractures related to osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis complications include both morbidity and mortality. Some who suffer from osteoporosis also suffer from a significant amount of pain, as well as days absent from work related to osteoporosis complications, decrease in quality of life, and for some, even permanent disability.

Often times for those who suffer from any osteoporotic fracture they never fully recover.

Hip fractures are a common complication of osteoporosis and not only put patients at risk for orthopedic complications and required surgery associated with this condition but also make patients more susceptible to deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, pneumonia and other immobility issues such as a loss of muscle tone and strength.

Many who suffer a hip fracture related to osteoporosis find themselves requiring long-term nursing home care after the initial recovery period due to the morbidity associated with the fracture. The current mortality rate in the first 12 months after a hip fracture is thought to be approximately 20%.

Kyphosis is a serious osteoporosis complication in which vertebral fractures ultimately lead to spinal deformity which can cause the hunchback known as kyphosis. With kyphosis, the internal organs become compressed due to the deformity which can lead to breathing difficulties.

Osteoporosis must be aggressively managed in hopes of avoiding future long-term complications. The serious complications associated with osteoporosis are ones which can severely alter your daily life.

Seeking medical care for osteoporosis is a decision you must make if you intend to regain control of your life and hope to ever stop the progression of osteoporosis complications.

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3 Main Symptoms of Osteoporosis

2008-04-24T22:46:00.000-07:00

By Riana D Lance

Osteoporosis generally develops without any apparent symptoms and therefore is referred to as ‘silent disease’. A few of the symptoms that do arise generally emerge only in the advanced stages. People normally do not become aware of the disease being cropping up, unless their bones turn out to be so weak that a light bump or a fall leads to a fracture or collapse of a vertebra. Some people may also develop stooped posture, loss height or severe have back pain when the disease is in its advanced stage.

Fractures

These are generally the first symptom of osteoporosis. The bones become too weak to support the body so they break even by a light bump or a moderate strain. Although this disease affects all bones of the body, the most susceptible ones include spine, followed by hips, which is followed by wrist.

A spinal crush fracture, which involves crumbling or collapse of a vertebra is extremely painful and can result in deformed posture.

Stooped Posture and Loss of Height

Although most people believe that stooped posture and loss of height occur because of aging, they are actually avertable symptoms of osteoporosis. The loss of height most often occurs because of "compression fractures" in the spine, which in turn, arise when weak bone tissues of the vertebrae give way. These weak vertebrae can collapse even by coughing or sneezing, resulting in a sudden, unbearable pain. Over a certain period, these fractures lead to stooped posture, humpy back or loss of as much as 6 inches of height.

Acute or Chronic Back Pain

Your upper body is connected to your pelvis and legs by the lower spine. Your lower spine is one, which confers you the capability to turn, bend, lift or twist. It also supports most of the weight of your body while you stand. Hence, this is the region, which is always under maximum stress and also most susceptible to osteoporosis. Osteoporosis of this region causes sharp and unbearable pain.

Thus, the consequences of osteoporosis are often intolerable and debilitating. The good news is that osteoporosis is a preventable and treatable condition. The need is to educate yourself about how to make better your bone health and keep away from the risks of osteoporosis.

About the author: Riana Lance has a deep concern on health. Grasp her other motivational health tips at Health News. Also check Her Other websites and more.

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The Truth About Osteoporosis

2008-04-24T22:42:00.000-07:00

By Je Dunn

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis, is a disease in which there is a loss of bone mass and destruction of bone tissue. This term is widely linked to the common misconception that a persons bones are brittle and or crumbling, and is a condition that effects older people older women in particular.

The truth is even though this condition does not cause the bones of the body to crumble; it does weaken them and thus increase to likelihood of bone damage or breakage and in fact can occur anytime in your life especially from age 30 and beyond.

This is because the bone mass in our bodies reaches its peak mass during young adulthood. This bones density stays stable for a period of years and then begins a slow but steady loss. The bones most often affected are the hips, spine, and wrists. What Causes Osteoporosis and What Can Be Done To Prevent It? Osteoporosis is just one of several conditions effecting bone structure. In the latest statistics 0ne in two women will develop Osteoporosis and about one in eight men. Osteoporosis is responsible for roughly 1.5 million fractures a year. There isn’t any one event or thing that causes Osteoporosis. Rather it is a gradual process that often gives no overt warnings. Most people never think much about it until an episode such as a break or fracture brings forth a diagnosis. The causes Osteoporosis are multifaceted and are different in each individual’s case. Things such as diet, heredity, weight, exercise and nutrition all play into the equation. Since the causes of Osteoporosis are multifaceted so should be the treatment and prevention.

Time To Get Real!

Fact: Bone mass decreases in everyone. If you want to slow this process to a craw its time to look at your lifestyle. Here are a few things to consider for ageing with stronger healthier bones and body! Eat smart. Research shows that our diet and lifestyle plays a major role in the cause or the prevention of Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis has been on the increase in Western countries as a direct result of what we eat and our sedimentary lifestyles. What your bones need. Magnesium two thirds of the magnesium in our bodies is stored in our bones. It is essential to the bone structure.

Vitamin D, Calcium and Estrogen.

Lifting weights will help build bone density. You don’t need to become a power lifter but lifting some light weights several times a week can really help. A change in lifestyle to help prevent osteoporosis will benefit every aspect of your life as well.

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Osteoporosis Prevention - Information on How to Prevent Osteoporosis and Cause of this Disease

2008-04-24T22:38:00.000-07:00

By Mary Rose Antonio

Unfortunately, osteoporosis treatments are few and have a very low success rate, this is why osteoporosis prevention should not be taken lightly.

Osteoporosis is considered an invisible disease and is the twelfth leading cause of death in America.

It is invisible because it progresses without any obvious symptoms until the physical changes start to show up. Slowly you are shrinking, you are starting to stoop down, irreversible pain and you are prone to bone fractures. A fracture could happen without you falling or hitting something.

One solution for osteoporosis is to do some weight bearing exercises to develop strong, dense bones. Also the intake of calcium and other essential minerals throughout life should not be ignored.

What is the cause of osteoporosis?

Our bones undergo a continual process wherein the old bone is replaced by the new bone. This process is called remodeling.

The problem occurs when the removal of old bone occurs faster at a faster rate than the depositing of new bone which is called bone resorption.

Women are at a greater risk for developing osteoporosis mainly because of small bone structure and hormonal changes that accompany menopause.

It's crucial to take calcium supplements at different stages of life. Adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D are required during childhood and adolescence to develop strong and dense bones.

During the middle years, however, the need for calcium supplements is supported by the fact that calcium loss exceeds calcium gain to bones.

To prevent osteoporosis, you may consider drinking high quality green tea throughout the day -- everyday. It has the ability to reduce excessive resorption.

Green tea also contains vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, B2, D, K, and carotenoids as well as chromium, calcium, magnesium, manganese, iron, copper, zinc, molybdenum, selenium, sodium, phosphorus, strontium, cobalt, nickel, and potassium, to name a few in addition to polyphenols particularly catechins and EGCG.

Polyphenols although can be found in garlic, fruits, and potatoes are not as strong and as remarkable as the polyphenols found in green tea.

In the Mediterranean Osteoporosis Study, it was identified that drinking green tea is a key factor to prevent osteoporosis.

Mary Rose Antonio is a great believer in natural healing and she invites you to learn more about the amazing benefits of green tea. She also has an online store selling organic teas such as green teas, and more! Each of them possesses its own quality and benefits to your body. Sign up for her newsletter to get exclusive discounts and giveaways as well as a chance to win a FREE tea gift basket each month!

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Understanding Osteoporosis

2008-04-24T22:32:00.000-07:00

By Riana D Lance

Osteoporosis is a progressive disease that weakens bones, enhancing the danger of sudden and unexpected fractures. Literally, Osteoporosis means ‘porous bones’. The pores develop in bones after an extensive loss of bone mass. The disorder is mainly linked to the aging process, although it can affect people of any age. The disease is more prevalent among women, particularly the menopausal women, but it occurs among men as well.

Osteoporosis is of two types:

Primary osteoporosis: This commonly occurs in women of age 50 to 65 years, i.e., menopausal/postmenopausal woman. Men after age 75 may also develop it.

Secondary osteoporosis: This may occur among young, middle-aged people and the older people as well. Some of the common causes of secondary osteoporosis include:

• Medications like corticosteroids
• Anorexia nervosa, a self-inflicted starvation which leads to malnutrition
• Too much of workouts – among women who indulge in too much of exercises, estrogen production may cease, which may lead to osteoporosis.

Causes of Osteoporosis

Bones are made up of bone tissues and minerals. The process of bone formation is an ever-going process, with each of the old bone in our body being replaced by a new one in about hundred days. However, when the bone tissues and minerals are lost more rapidly than they are replenished, osteoporosis occurs. Lack of adequate amount of bone tissues and minerals forms pores in the bones, the characteristic of this disease.

Until twenties, the bones are built faster than they are broken down; consequently, when you are around 30 years, your bone density is maximum. Osteoporosis is actually linked to how much maximum bone density you acquire (by age 30) and how much of bone loss you will undergo in your middle and old age. The greater is your bone mass acquired early in life, the lesser are your chances to get osteoporosis. For the coming 15-20 years after the age of 30 years, the rate of bone loss and that of rebuilding is almost alike, thus, the bone density continues to be similar during these years. However, beyond the age 45-55 years, the breakdown of bones exceeds their building up reducing their densities. Among women, the bone loss is fastest after menopause when the decline in estrogen levels, while among men, the boss accelerates after age 65, when the levels of the hormone testosterone fall.

Thus, among the factors that cause osteoporosis are:
• Deficiency of the hormones (estrogen in women and testosterone in men)
• Nutritional deficiencies, especially of calcium and vitamin D
• Sedentary lifestyle with a lack of physical activity. Exercise or any kind of physical activity has been found to increase bone mass and hence reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

About the author: Riana Lance has a deep concern on health. Grasp her other motivational health tips at Health News, a worth-to-visit daily updated blog. Also check Her Other websites and more.

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Important Factors to Avoid in Preventing Osteoporosis

2008-04-24T22:27:00.000-07:00

By Riana D Lance

The tendency to develop osteoporosis depends on a number of factors, important ones of which are listed below:

Age: The chances of getting osteoporosis increase in women after the age 45-50, while in men 65-70 years.

Gender: As compared to men, women are 4 times more susceptible to osteoporosis since their bones are lighter and thinner than of men.

Race: Studies have revealed that Asian and Caucasian women are more prone to get osteoporosis than other women are.

Bone structure and body frame: Shorter people are at a larger risk of osteoporosis, as they possess lesser bone mass, loss of even some of which can be critical enough to lead to osteoporosis. Thinner people are also at a greater risk of osteoporosis since they possess lesser fat. Fat cells make estrogen, whose deficiency causes bone loss in women.

Genetic factor: People with family history of osteoporosis are at a greater risk of osteoporosis.

Malnutrition: Lack of proper nourishment may lead to the deficiency of vital nutrients essential for the bone health (like calcium, vitamin D) and hence increase the risk of osteoporosis

Smoking: Smoking also enhances the risk of osteoporosis.

Alcohol use: In people who drink heavily, boss loss is far greater than its formation. However, a recent research has shown that consuming moderate amount of alcohol may actually increase the bone density. Thus, cutting down the amount of alcohol to mild or moderate amounts would be a better option for your bone health.

Soft drinks: Regular consumption of soft drinks with a high amount of phosphoric acid can hinder absorption of bone.

Sedentary lifestyle: Too little or physical activity and weight bearing exercises like walking, running, dancing, weight lifting or climbing stairs can weaken the bones. Exercises also make your balance better and reduce the likelihood of falling.

Certain medical conditions: If you are suffering from certain medical conditions, like hyperthyroidism, or have a disorder that hinders proper utilization of calcium and vitamin D, you at a larger risk for osteoporosis.

Certain medications: If you are on medications like corticosteroids, generally used for treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma for 6 months or a longer period, you are susceptible to steroid-induced osteoporosis. These medications are the common cause of osteoporosis seen in men.

Caffeine: A high amount of caffeine can also increase the osteoporosis. Thus, you must limit the intake of coffee, tea, cola, chocolates etc.

Anorexia: Anorexia refers to loss of appetite due to certain medical condition or deliberately fasting to lose weight. Such a condition often creates a deficiency of nutrients (like calcium, vitamin D) required for bone formation, hence increasing the chances of getting osteoporosis.

About the author: Riana Lance has a deep concern on health. Grasp her other motivational health tips at Health News. Also check Her Other websites and more.

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Osteoporosis - Can It Be Prevented?

2008-04-24T22:23:00.000-07:00

By Ashira R

A fall on the icy sidewalk. Accidentally bumping into a counter top. There was a time when these would have bounced away with nothing more than a bright purple bruise. When you have osteoporosis, those same incidents can cause a serious bone breakage. Osteoporosis leaves your bones in a weak, brittle, and porous state. There are over 25 million Americans that don't even realize that they have osteoporosis until they have that fall. Women who have stopped producing estrogen due to menopause are at an even greater risk for developing osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis actually starts around the early thirties, and year by year a bit more of the bone loss becomes takes place. Most of the time there are no signs outwardly that the disease has taken a hold. That is the bad news. The good news is that you can actually slow down osteoporosis and in some cases add bone with regular exercise, calcium supplements, and certain herbs.

Experts agree that women in particular should do at least 30 minutes of weight bearing exercise such as jogging or walking at least three times a week. The AMA suggests calcium supplements of at least 1,200 milligrams and 300 milligrams of magnesium daily.

To dramatically improve the chances that the calcium is properly absorbed, try gentian root before each meal. It prompts the acids in your stomach to break the calcium down ensuring it can be absorbed completely. Most health food stores sell gentian root in 550 milligram capsules.

Horsetail is one of the richest sources of silicon which helps prevent osteoporosis from progressing. Studies in France indicate a profound decrease in osteoporosis when 350 milligram capsules are taken daily. Horsetail can also be used as a tea in its dried form.

One of the best bone fortifiers you can find in the grocery store. Avocados sliced and sprinkled with black pepper is a under estimated remedy. Black pepper actually contains four different anti-osteoporosis compounds and avocado is loaded with vitamin D and vitamin E.

A proactive attack on osteoporosis may stop it before it even starts.

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Osteoporosis Diet

2008-04-24T22:09:00.000-07:00

By Stewart Hare

Osteoporosis is on the whole a largely preventable condition that decreases the bone density which in tern causes them to become brittle; this increases the risks of spinal vertebrae compression and fractures, particularly in the hip, wrist, and spine. Caucasian and Asian postmenopausal women are the most affected group from osteoporosis. The hormone oestrogen protects women against bone loss before menopause. The symptoms of osteoporosis are largely unnoticeable until the incidences of broken bones become fact. Symptoms to be aware of and to look out for are back and neck pain, dowager’s hump, diminished height and rounded shoulders.

Osteoporosis is caused by many factors, the dominance of oestrogen to progesterone, the leaching of calcium from the bone due to excessive protein consumption and deficiency of calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, vitamin C, silica, zinc, boron and phosphorus in the diet, which are all vital for healthy bone growth.

To help combat osteoporosis it is best to cut down on animal protein intake, studies have shown that vegetarians suffer less from osteoporosis. This is because animal protein increases the loss of calcium through urine; the loss of calcium increases the risk of osteoporosis. Another agent that increases the loss of calcium through urine is dietary salt. Cutting down the intake of dietary salt and processed and fast foods which tend to be high in salt content will help with osteoporosis. Decreasing the amount of coffee, caffeine-containing carbonated soft drinks and tea will help with osteoporosis, like protein intake and salt, caffeine also increases the loss of calcium through urine. So cutting out caffeine is a good idea. Many carbonated soft drinks also have a substance called phosphoric acid which has been linked to the loss of calcium and the increase of bone fractures. Increasing the amount of isoflavones rich Soya foods such as tofu will help protect against osteoporosis. Increasing the consumption of oily fish, evening primrose and flaxseed oil will help to increase calcium deposition in the bones due to the high amounts of essential fatty acids these products have.

Giving up smoking will help with osteoporosis because it increases bone loss. Taking up exercise especially weight bearing exercise will help with osteoporosis. Be careful of dieting, excessive quick weight loss has been linked with osteoporosis.

The following supplements may help if you are suffering from osteoporosis.

Bone mineral complex

Boron

Copper

Evening primrose oil

Fish Oil

Flaxseed oil

Folic Acid

Magnesium

Manganese

Multivitamin and multiminerals

Silica

Soya

Strontium

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B6

Vitamin C

Vitamin D

Vitamin K

Zinc

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Osteoporosis And The Loss Of Bone Density

2008-04-24T22:04:00.000-07:00

By Jeff Foster

Osteoporosis is a health condition suffered by many today of which the hallmark is the loss of the normal bone density and the subsequent fragility of the skeletal bones.

Because of the loss of or the reduction in the bone density in the original skeletal structure, the skeletal bones lose their strength putting the osteoporotic bones at a much higher risk for fracture.

But osteoporosis leads to bones that look like a sponge. These bones are abnormally porous and begin in the worst-case situations to look a lot like Swiss cheese. Osteoporosis weakens the entire skeletal system and puts the sufferer at great risk for bone fracture.

The morbidity associated with bone fractures in the aging population is quite high.

The anecdotal stories recalled time and time again of senior citizens failing to ever really recover from a bone fracture seem to point as clear evidence of the high morbidity of skeletal fractures.

With osteoporosis bone fracture easily.

In fact a minor fall or simple injury that in the majority of the population might only cause a bump or bruise, but in a person suffering from osteoporosis it can lead to a severe fracture.

The wrist, hips, and spine are the most common locations of osteoporosis-related bone fractures; however, osteoporosis-related fractures can also develop in almost any skeletal bone area.

Normal bone is composed of the collagen, calcium, and protein. But with osteoporosis these are no longer well represented.

Fractures associated with osteoporosis can be in the form of a collapse such as in the case with a compression fracture of the vertebrae in the spine or it can be a fracture in the form of a crack such as when you see a complete hip fracture.

While treatment options are more readily available, the key to osteoporosis is prevention. Once a break occurs the ramifications of that will be with you for life.

It seems currently that women have a higher incidence of osteoporosis. This is thought to be related to the many hormonal changes experienced by a woman during her lifetime.

Osteoporosis is a preventable disease.

The morbidity and mortality associated with osteoporosis is something that must be taken seriously.

Make sure that you see your health care provider on a yearly basis in order to have a current assessment about the status of your bone density particularly if you are a woman over the age of 35.

For more important information on back pain, causes of back pain, back pain relief, and more, visit http://www.0-backpain.com where you'll find articles and information on what causes and relieving your back pain

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Back Pain - Osteoporosis

2008-04-24T21:38:00.000-07:00

By Atul Bahl

Osteoporosis or weak bones is a major health problem. It contributes to 1.5 million fractures per year. Half of all women above 50 years women will sustain an osteoporosis-related fracture sometime in their life. Men should also be concerned about osteoporosis as approximately one in eight men will have an osteoporotic fracture. The above figures are alarming and proper care is needed to prevent it.

Bone density is one of the factors that determine bone strength, so individuals with low bone density have a higher risk for fracture and refracture. Bone density is a non invasive, painless procedure and it helps determine the bone strength of the individual.

Factors that contribute to osteoporosis are aging, lack of exercise, smoking and excessive alcohol intake, low calcium dietary intake, reduced calcium absorption and inadequate vitamin D levels. Regular bone density scans should be done in persons above 45 years of age to confirm the diagnosis and to determine the disease severity, especially in postmenopausal women who present with a fracture. The person should make sure that they get 1000-1500mg of calcium per day. Furthermore if you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, diet and lifestyle changes can reduce your risk of refracture and one should discuss medical therapy with one’s physician. Regular exercise is one of the best things you can do to prevent osteoporosis. The key to the treatment of osteoporosis lies in prevention, with the major goal being the preservation of bone mass.

A fracture may be more than a just a broken bone. It may be a warning sign that you have osteoporosis.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Atul_Bahl

Atul Bahl - EzineArticles Expert Author

Grapefruit and Orange Juice May Build Stronger Bone

2008-04-17T23:03:00.000-07:00

By Valerian D.

Osteoporosis is very different from nearly all other diseases or frequent illnesses, because there are no symptoms to tell that something is out of order. For this reason it is often called a "silent disease".

Osteoporosis affects 28 million American people, 80 percent of whom are women. Due of osteoporosis, bones are thin and weak and they have a low mass. At the same time osteoporosis means a bone tissue deterioration causing a high fragility and an important risk of fracture. A major consequence for osteoporosis sufferers is the limitation of their mobility, as well as loosing the independence and self-esteem.

Many patients believe once they have osteoporosis, there is no hope to protect their bones. Recently a study concluded that regular intake of grapefruit and orange juice could help building stronger bones. The research team also have a similar conclusion with grapefruit and orange pulp.

According to the team findings, the explanation of this action is very simple. The diminution in bone density is the consequence of an increase in oxidants. During the tests, it was observed that both orange juice and grapefruit juice increased antioxidants. As there are about 400 compounds in these juices, the new target of scientific team is to identify which one causes this effect.

Valerian D is a freelance writer interested in issues such as anti aging of bones and dark eye area

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Valerian_D.

Osteoporosis | Magnesium Helps Prevent Osteoporosis

2008-03-30T23:40:00.000-07:00

Author: Ray Attebery

To protect your bones from osteoporosis, look beyond calcium, suggests a study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.

After studying more than 2,000 men and women ages 70 to 79, researchers learned people consuming the most magnesium had denser bones, which helps prevent osteoporosis.

Though clinical trials will be needed to clarify magnesiums role, researchers say the study results add to previous research that shows the mineral is a key player in the fight against osteoporosis. The strength of the association is similar to a previous study of calcium intake and bone density, says lead study author Kathryn M. Ryder, M.D., M.Sci., associate professor of medicine at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis.

The recommended dietary allowance for men is 420 milligrams (mg) of magnesium per day; for women, 320 mg per day. Dr. Ryder advises reaching this goal through food alone. Check out our handy grocery list for some delicious options to help prevent osteoporosis. Talk to your doctor about supplements if you can not take in enough magnesium through foods, says Dr. Ryder. And start low. High doses of magnesium supplements may cause diarrhea and cramping.

Grocery List: Magnesium

FOOD DAILY VALUE MET
3 oz cooked halibut_________________20% 1 oz dry roasted almonds_____________________20% 1/2 cup frozen, cooked spinach______________20% 1/2 cup cooked soybeans____________________________20%
Instant oatmeal with water__________15%
Medium potato with skin_____________15%
2 T peanut butter___________________15%
8 oz plain nonfat yogurt____________10%
3/4 cup bran flakes_________________10%
1/2 cup brown rice__________________10%
1/2 cup kidney beans_________________8%
1 cup chocolate milk (2% or skim)____8%
1 medium banana______________________8%
1 slice whole wheat bread____________6%
1/4 cup raisins______________________6%

Move right, Eat Right To find out how food and exercise choices affect bone health and help prevent osteoporosis, we spoke with Miriam Nelson, Ph.D., associate professor at Tufts University Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy in Boston and author of Strong Women, Strong Bones.

What are your exercise tips for strong bones? Strength training and weight-bearing exercises. Weight-bearing exercise means you are truly bearing your weight, as in walking, jogging, skipping, jumping, playing tennis. With the strength training, you will want it to be progressive, using heavier weights over time.

Besides calcium, what should you consume for bone strength? Vitamin D is also important, but it is really about establishing healthy habits. You should eat at least three low-fat dairy foods, five to seven servings of fruits and vegetables, three of protein (meat, fish, eggs) and six servings of whole grains daily. Do this, and you will get the nutrients that are good for bones. Then choose a supplement to make up any deficit you might have.

Strong bones go a long way toward osteoporosis prevention. So remember to exercise and choose delicious foods containing magnesium and vitamin D, as well as calcium.

Osteoporosis Natural Treatments That Work

2008-03-30T23:31:00.000-07:00

Author: Rudy Silva

If your doctor says your bone density is degenerating or that you have osteoporosis, what can you do? Most likely your doctor will want to put you on drugs. Since most drugs have real nasty side effects, after long-term use, you may want to look for a natural alternative.

First of all, you need to make sure that you are taking a good calcium and magnesium supplement, for reducing osteoporosis. For women, I recommend, up to 1200 mg to 1600 mg of calcium per day and about 600 mg to 800 mg of magnesium. For men, use around 200 mg less than women.

Since calcium is a difficult mineral to absorb, in your intestinal tract, taking magnesium improves your ability to absorb it. Using an ionic form of calcium also improves your changes of absorbing it.

Vitamin B12 reduces osteoporosis

There is one other nutrient that you should also take to increase your absorption of calcium. In a clinical study made at the University of California, they found that women who had the highest levels of vitamin B12 compared to the ones that had the lowest levels had a significant decrease in bone loss and bone fractures - reduced osteoporosis.
In another study done by Tufts University, they again found that in 2,500 men and women that high levels of vitamin B12 reduced their chances of getting osteoporosis.

Homocysteine

In previous newsletters, I had written about more benefits of Vitamin B12, B6, and folic acid. These B vitamins are essential for reducing your homocysteine levels. Remember that high homocysteine levels and unchecked homocysteine levels in your blood lead to plaque buildup in blood vessels. Plaque build up in your blood vessels is probably the most serious condition that you will have to face as you age. Plaque buildup in the blood vessels is the major cause of cardiovascular disease.

Celiac Disease encourages osteoporosis

In another article, I have also written about celiac disease. More than 1.5 million people have this disease and many don't know it. It is a disease where grains (gluten) have destroyed the small intestines ability to absorb nutrients.

To make your Vitamin B12 absorption worse, you produce less intrinsic factor as you age. Intrinsic factor is created in the stomach, which helps you adsorb more Vitamin B12.

Clinical studies have been shown that those with severe celiac disease also have severe osteoporosis.

Pharmaceuticals block calcium and encourage osteoporosis

Pharmaceuticals of various kinds, especially acid blocker, can also prevent you from properly absorbing Vitamin B12. So keep this in mind as you use pharmaceuticals and look for ways to reduce their use by using natural remedies.

So now you can see that it's necessary to supplement with calcium, magnesium, B12, B6, and folic acid to prevent or even reduce osteoporosis. Not only do these supplements help you with osteoporosis, but they also reduce plaque buildup in your artery walls.

Symptoms and Prevention of Osteoporosis

2008-03-30T23:29:00.000-07:00

Author: James Hunt

Both women and men suffer from osteoporosis but women are much more likely to contract the disease. You might think your bones and strong and unbreakable, but you could be very wrong. Osteoporosis doesn't show its symptoms until it has become severe and by that time, there's not much you can do about it.

Osteoporosis is the condition in which your bones become thinner, fragile and more apt to break. This disease is very painful until bones break and fractures usually occur in the hip, spine and wrist. Any bone in your body can be affected by osteoporosis but the ones that break the most are in the hip area. This is a most severe break for a person because it usually requires a hospital stay and surgery. It also could require a person to walk with a cane because of the break or it may take away their ability to walk altogether. Death can even occur from spinal or vertebral injuries due to osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis can be prevented if you start taking calcium when you're young. Calcium will help keep your bones strong and unbreakable throughout the rest of your life. So, talk to your doctor and see how much calcium you should be getting per day. Once you know the dosage, you can choose the right type of calcium for you.

Taking calcium doesn't have to be boring anymore. You can choose from pills, chews or even "candy" to get your recommended dose of calcium. Pills have been around for ever but the chews are a slightly new invention. They come in grape, orange and strawberry flavors and you can suck or chew them until they're gone. There are also candy calcium chews that taste like caramel or chocolate. So, there really is no excuse why you aren't getting calcium every day. Teenagers need to take calcium as well, to ensure that they don't get osteoporosis one day either.

The Cause of Osteoporosis. a Simple Guide to Causes of Osteoporosis

2008-03-30T23:25:00.000-07:00

Author: Michael Porteous

Osteoporosis is a condition of low bone density leading to fragile and easily broken bones. Knowing why such a condition comes about is most important in learning how to combat the condition, unfortunately there is no single cause of osteoporosis but there are quite a few major causes of osteoporosis that we can detect.

First we need to understand why the bones become so weak in a person with osteoporosis.
Bones are a living tissue that is constantly being renewed through a process called "remodeling". This is where cells called osteoclasts search through bones in your body looking for old bone that needs replacing. When they find such an area the cells destroy that old bone leaving a small space in the bone. While this is happening cells call osteoblasts are also searching through the bone, however this cell is looking for the spaces left by the osteoclasts. When the osteoblasts find these empty spaces they have the power to fill that space with new bone. This process goes on our whole lives constantly regrowing the bones in our body.
Someone who has osteoporosis means that those spaces left by the osteoclasts are not being filled quickly enough and leave the bone with a kind of honeycomb effect making it less dense and more prone to breakage. So this is the direct cause of the condition, but why do we have this imbalance in bone renewal?

Healthy bones are a product of a healthy body and a healthy body has healthy blood. However in today’s western society we do not always have a healthy body or blood. In fact our blood often becomes acidic which is very bad for us. The body responds by stripping calcium from the bone to redress the acid levels but this calcium is not deposited back into the bone leaving a shortfall that the bone cannot make up while we continue to pollute our blood.
The cause of this acidic blood is varied but mainly based on what we eat. A diet high in protein with lots of meat, processed food and dairy products causes our blood to change and start down the road to osteoporosis, only by changing our diet can we hold off conditions like this and in turn many other problems like heart disease and diabetes. Smoking and excessive drinking also pollute the body and add to the condition while a lack of exercise, especially weight based training will accelerate it.

So we see the cause of osteoporosis is not some hereditary disease, in fact it is a condition not a disease as it is just a byproduct of our lifestyle, eating habits and exercise. It is therefore possible to stop these causes of osteoporosis and lead a healthier life by controlling our lifestyles to eat more alkaline based food, exercise with weights and resistance training and generally try to live healthier!

Diagnosing Osteoporosis - Solving The Broken Bones Mystery

2008-03-30T23:22:00.000-07:00

Author: Jeff Foster

Osteoporosis can occur when there is a loss of bone density and strength due to a variety of factors.

Osteoporosis may be related to aging, certain types of medications, or other health related conditions. A diagnosis of osteoporosis is often made while diagnosing a fracture.

It is important that osteoporosis is diagnosed early so that accurate and aggressive treatment management can occur in order to reach the best outcome.

Not only the financial cost but the health costs associated with a missed diagnosis of or even an inaccurate diagnosis of osteoporosis can be very high. The health consequences associated with an inaccurate or omitted diagnosis of osteoporosis can be seen for years to come.

When initially diagnosed saying osteoporosis, your physician must make the determination of whether the osteoporosis is a primary or secondary diagnosis. Primary osteoporosis means it that the diagnosis is a stand-alone diagnosis, meaning that there is no other health issue that is causing it.

However, with a secondary diagnosis of osteoporosis this means that there is another health condition which is causing the osteoporosis. Some other health conditions which can lead to a secondary diagnosis of osteoporosis include conditions such as multiple myeloma, lymphoma, diabetes, Cushing's disease, hyperthyroidism, osteogenesis imperfecta, and even Marfan's syndrome.

The best medical test on today's market for diagnosing osteoporosis is the DEXA scan. Considered the gold standard by many healthcare providers, the DEXA scan is completely painless for patients and only takes about 10 minutes to perform. The scan uses limited amounts of radiation to scan the bones of the wrist, the spine or the hip to assess general bone density.

This can help your physician to make a definitive diagnosis of osteoporosis as well as help your physician to determine if compared to others in your age and gender control group you have a higher risk of developing an osteoporosis related fracture.

Diagnosing osteoporosis is a fairly straightforward procedure that your general healthcare provider can handle. But even though it is an easy diagnosis to make, it is one that is critical to your overall health.

So as you age and particularly if you are female or if you have other health conditions that put you at risk for osteoporosis, make sure that you work closely with your physician to make sure that you are appropriately screened for osteoporosis.

Diagnosing osteoporosis is one diagnosis that you can't afford for your healthcare provider to miss.

Osteoporosis - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Methods

2008-03-30T23:18:00.000-07:00

Author: Juliet Cohen |

Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become fragile and more likely to break. Osteoporosis often was thought to be a condition that frail elderly women develop. Osteoporosis leads to literally abnormally porous bone that is more compressible like a sponge, than dense like a brick. This disorder of the skeleton weakens the bone leading to an increase in the risk of breaking bones (bone fracture). A broken bone can really affect a woman's life. It can cause disability, pain, or loss of independence. It can make it harder to do daily activities without help, such as walking. If you have osteoporosis, you have an increased risk for fractured bones (broken bones), particularly in the hip, spine, and wrist. In most cases, bones weaken when you have low levels of calcium, phosphorus and other minerals in your bones. The process of bone remodelling from resorption to matrix synthesis to mineralization normally takes about 8 months--a slow but constant process. The disease is “silent” because there are no symptoms when you have osteoporosis, and the condition may come to attention only after you break a bone. Osteoporosis can also accompany endocrine disorders or result from excessive use of drugs such as corticosteroids.

Osteoporosis can cause a person to stoop forward and appear to have a hump on his or her spine. The most serious and debilitating osteoporotic fracture is the hip fracture. The goal of treating osteoporosis is to prevent such fractures in the first place. People with osteoporosis most often break bones in the hip, spine, and wrist. Most hip fracture patients who previously lived independently will require help from their family or home care. In the United States, nearly 10 million people already have osteoporosis. Another 18 million people have low bone mass that places them at an increased risk for developing osteoporosis. Any bone can be affected, but of special concern are fractures of the hip and spine. One out of every two women and one in four men over age 50 will break a bone in their lifetime due to osteoporosis. A hip fracture almost always requires hospitalization and major surgery. Normal bone is composed of protein, collagen, and calcium. Bones that are affected by osteoporosis can fracture with only a minor fall or injury that normally would not cause a bone fracture.

Causes of Osteoporosis

The common causes and risk factor's of Osteoporosis include the following:

Family history of osteoporosis.

Smoking.

Anorexia nervosa.

Lack of exercise or long-term bed rest can cause weak bones.

Small, thin women are at greater risk.

Certain medications eg steroids.

Drinking alcohol.

Lack of dietary calcium.

Inactive lifestyle.

Low testosterone levels in men.

Longer postmenopausal interval.

Symptoms of Osteoporosis

Some sign and symptoms related to Osteoporosis are as follows:

Back pain, which can be severe if you have a fractured or collapsed vertebra.

Broken bones.

Loss of height over time, with an accompanying stooped posture.

Dull pain in the bones or muscles.

Neck pain.

Treatment of Osteoporosis

Here is list of the methods for treating Osteoporosis:

A balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.

Alendronate (Fosamax®): This drug belongs to a class of drugs called biophosphonates and is approved for both prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.

Exercise.

You may need quite strong pain killers (analgesics), for quite some time, in the event of an osteoporotic fracture.

A healthy lifestyle.

Biphosphonates: This type of medication is used to arrest the progress of osteoporosis and even reverse it. They encourage the laying down of calcium in the bones. One of these is also used when people have to be on long term steroids.

Calcitonin is another medication used to decrease bone loss.

Sodium fluoride can increase the measured bone density in vertebra, but seems to have no overall effectiveness in reducing vertebral fracture.