The causes of osteoporosis

1. OsteoporosisWhat is osteoporosis? Osteoporosis is a condition of reduced bone density with increased susceptibility to fractures. The causes of osteoporosis Calcium is an essential element for bone production. A reduction in hormones, especially oestrogen, speeds up the loss of calcium in the body, causing bones to become porous and brittle. People who have undergone menopause, or who have oophorectomy done are more likely to suffer from osteoporosis. Besides, bone density gradually decreases as people grow older. Therefore it is important to optimise bone mass (usually before the age of 30) and to reduce bone loss in later years through a modification in dietary, exercise and lifestyle factors. A 20 Years old woman A 80 Years old woman

2. The effects of osteoporosisOsteoporosis is characterized by significant loss of calcium from bones, leaving them weak and prone to fractures. The common sites of bone fractures are in the spine, hip, and wrist. Bone fractures can cause chronic pain, hunched back, and other ailments. How to prevent osteoporosis Preventive measures include the following: • Increase your intake of calcium • Avoid smoking, alcohol, and excessive caffeine • Adequate exercise

3. RicketsWhat is rickets?Rickets is a childhood disorder involving softening and weakening of the bones. It is primarily caused by lack of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate The Cause of Rickets Rickets is a bone disease that affects children when these deficiencies occur. It causes progressive softening and weakening of the bones' structure. There is a loss of calcium and phosphate from the bones, which eventually causes destruction of the supportive matrix. Because vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, conditions that reduce digestion or absorption of fats will decrease the ability of vitamin D to be absorbed from the intestines. When the body is deficient in vitamin D, it is unable to properly regulate calcium and phosphate levels. If the blood levels of these minerals become too low, other body hormones may stimulate release of calcium and phosphate from the bones to the bloodstream to elevate the blood levels.

4. How to prevent RicketsRickets may be avoided by having child maintain an adequate intake of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D. This may require dietary supplements in people who have gastrointestinal or other disorders. The Symptoms • Bone pain or tenderness • Skeletal deformities • Increased tendency toward bone fractures • Dental deformities • Muscle cramps • Impaired growth • Short stature (adults less than 5 feet tall)