Prevent osteoporosis by taking in the proper amount of calcium.

You’ll never notice you’re suffering from osteoporosis until an accident happens. A fall, for example, could lead to a broken bone and an examination would later reveal that you’re having porous and fragile bones.

And contrary to popular belief, osteoporosis also affects men. However, the loss of bone density is faster among women due to estrogen deficiency. And experts say that the diminished amount of estrogen along with genetics may be the primary reason for the getting the silent epidemic of osteoporosis.

However, measures can be taken to prevent the onset of the disease. Parents are advised to ensure that their children are taking in sufficient amounts of calcium, as early as infancy. Note though that there are some things that you must consider in taking calcium. Below are the important things you should know when taking in calcium:

1. Calcium supplements, especially calcium carbonate, are best taken with meals as food enhances their absorption. Calcium citrate, on the other hand, can be taken anytime.

2. If your calcium tablet dissolves within 30 minutes after putting it in a glass of water or vinegar, it means your calcium supplement is easily absorbed by the body.

3. To ease side effects caused by calcium preparations like flatulence and constipation, increase the intake of fluids and fiber. If this doesn’t work, just use another calcium preparation.

4. Supplemental tablets of 500 mg or less should be taken several times a day with meals for better calcium absorption.

5. It is advisable to use calcium preparations containing Vitamin D which is vital to calcium absorption.

6. Do NOT take calcium with tetracycline and iron at the same time because the former tends to interfere with the absorption of the latter.

7. Any medication that has to be taken on an empty stomach should not be ingested together with calcium supplements.

For those already with osteoporosis, increased calcium intake will not suffice. Patients are advised to take anti-resorptive agents or bone-forming agents to halt the process of bone less.

Prevent the silent epidemic! Eat foods rich in calcium and exercise regularly!

Sources:

William C. Shiel Jr., M.D., “Osteoporosis”, MedicineNet.com
John R. Lee, M.D. and Virginia Hopkins, “How to Prevent Osteoporosis”, Virginia Hopkins Health Watch