Osteoporosis Causes

Osteoporosis, the loss of bone density, is the result of an imbalance in the bone’s remodeling process where osteoclast cells resorb or dissolve old bone faster than osteoblast cells reform new bone. Expert opinion varies on the exact cause of this imbalance however; most experts agree that the following factors contribute to this condition.

Ethnicity, Heredity and Gender

Osteoporosis involves people of all ethnic groups and in both genders but current research reveals that it occurs more often in Caucasian and Asian women than it does in African-American or Hispanic women. Experts also agree that Osteoporosis can be hereditary.

Women are more likely to develop Osteoporosis than men, because women tend to have smaller, thinner bones than men and women experience a drastic loss of the estrogen at menopause. Evidence bears validity that estrogen protects bones.

Loss of testosterone in men can also have an effect on the body’s ability to continue balanced bone remodeling and current research revealed that lower than normal estrogen levels can negatively have an effect on bone health in men as well as women.

Diet

Inadequate diet does cause bone density loss. Nutrients such as amino acids, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous and vitamin D are imperative for healthy bones.

Medical Conditions and Medications

Gastrointestinal disorders can inhibit the body’s ability to absorb nutrients vital to the bone’s remodeling process such as; amino acids, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous and vitamin D. The condition Hypercalciuria causes the loss of excessive amounts of calcium through the urine. Certain thyroid conditions, as well as Hypogonadism, a condition that results in abnormally, low, sex hormone levels can cause an imbalance in the bone’s remodeling ability.

Glucocorticoids, which are a type of steroid medication used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and asthma, have bone density loss as a common side effect. Cancer treatments can impair bone density, especially the type usually prescribed in the treatment of prostrate cancer.

Immobilization or an Inactive Lifestyle

Prolonged bed rest due to illness or injury causes a decrease in bone density as does a sedentary lifestyle.

Weight-bearing exercise such as walking, aerobics, jogging, running, dancing and weight lifting contribute to healthy bones.

Smoking and Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Experts have not yet determined exactly how smoking and excessive alcohol consumption cause bone loss, but evidence suggests that alcohol and cigarettes may contain toxins that impair bone remodeling or inhibit the body’s ability to absorb vital nutrients such as calcium.

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