The bones of our body are made of many minerals. The most important component of these is calcium. Apart from this, phosphorus, silicon, zinc, protein etc. are present in our bones.
About 10-20 percent water is also present in our bones. This means that oxygen and hydrogen also play an important role in the formation of bones. Our bones are made up of 60 to 70 percent calcium and phosphorus.
Reasons for reduced bone strength: Deficiency of calcium and other minerals in bones is called osteoporosis. There can be many reasons for this. Although osteoporosis occurs more in women above 50 years of age, but now it has started happening to men as well as younger people. These days, youth are also falling prey to osteoporosis due to lack of Vitamin D, lack of exposure to sunlight, alcohol consumption and smoking.
Hormonal changes that occur after menopause in women also increase the risk of osteoporosis. Among other reasons, hormonal imbalance is the most important. Steroids and some other medicines can reduce bone mineral density.
How to know that bones are becoming weak: If you have frequent back or waist pain or notice changes in your posture, you should be alert. This could be a symptom of osteoporosis.
To know the health of bones, you have to get bone mineral density tested, which is also called DXA test. This is a kind of X-ray, which does not cause pain. It checks the strength of your bones. Apart from this, doctors also do X-ray and MRI tests used in spine fractures.
Keep these things in mind since adolescence: Do not take any medicine without doctor’s advice. Take the medicine only after a complete checkup from the doctor as per the dosage prescribed by him.
Bone health is also badly affected due to lack of physical activity. In such a situation, it is mandatory to exercise every day.
Some exercises, like walking, running and dancing are good for strengthening your bones. Include it in your lifestyle since adolescence.
Include milk and milk products regularly in your diet. Quit smoking and alcohol. Sit in the morning sunlight for at least 15 to 20 minutes every day.
If you repeatedly have back pain, pain around the thighs, pain in the legs or have frequent cramps, then you must get your bone mineral density checked.