AUGUST 2012 - Osteoporosis

Article written by Kym Hughes - Naturopath Calanna Pharmacy Kirwan

www.calannapharmacy.com.au

Our skeleton is much like a coat hanger with which to hang our skin and muscles and to house our internal organs.  For this very reason a “Good Strong Frame” is important. 

The word osteoporosis comes from the Greek words: ostoun meaning "bone" and poros meaning "pore" so osteoporosis literally means porous bones.  

There are numerous things that can weaken our bone support for example:

• ·         Poor Diet – Lack of calcium and cofactors
• ·         Faulty Parathyroid Gland
• ·         Chemotherapy (May cause or contribute to the development of Menopause)
• ·         Post Menopause (females  in late 40’s to early 50’s)
• ·         A family history of Osteoporosis and fractures (indicating weakened or stressed bones)
• ·         Smoking
• ·         Sedentary lifestyle (little or irregular physical activity)

We can however, remedy bone loss with simple measures that may include one or more of the following:

• ·         Calcium Supplements

  By using compatible calcium such as Hydroxyapatite, a major component and essential ingredient of normal bone and teeth, which has an excellent absorption rate.  (Many modern implants such as Hip replacements and dental implants are coated with Hydroxyapatite).

• ·         Cod Liver Oil Supplements

Cod Liver Oil contains vitamins A & D which not only aids absorption but also contains Omega 3’s which help alleviate creaky bones and joints

• ·         A Healthy Diet

Consisting of fresh fruit and vegetables, lean protein, good whole grains and fresh water is a simple approach but one that has proven to be very beneficial

• ·         Regular Moderate Exercise

Regular exercise has proven to:

1.       Control weight

2.       Combat Health Conditions and Disease

3.       Improve mood and

4.       Boost energy