Home Remedy for Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a common problem worldwide. In the United States alone, over 30 percent of the population suffers from this disease.

Like heart problems, osteoporosis may be caused by a number of factors but the biggest culprit is diet. Again, like heart disease, osteoporosis does not show up early. Calcium deficiency shows up on x-rays only after 30 percent of the calcium in the bones is gone.

The best way to combat osteoporosis is by building strong bones, thereby preventing fractures and complications in the future. Here is what you can do at home to combat this disease of the elderly.

Change Your Diet

Your diet should be high in green leafy vegetables. The best diet would include plenty of whole grains (like brown rice, barley and millet), legumes and beans. To increase the body's ability to absorb calcium, ensure that your salads contain lemon juice or vinegar.

Sun, an Ally

Maintain necessary levels of Vitamin D by spending some time in the sun everyday. Studies show that women who live in cold climates are more likely to contract the disease than women who are exposed to sunnier weather. If you are going out for a little while, avoid sunscreen; this would only block the rays that produce Vitamin D. Skin cancer is an issue, but not if you spend 15 minutes out in the sun. We are not asking you to go sunbathing sans sunscreen for an hour or two.

Skip Milk

Contrary to popular belief, milk and dairy products are not good sources of absorbable calcium. We do not advise increasing your intake. Scandinavians are among the world's heaviest milk drinkers. They also have the highest rate of osteoporosis. The reason is this: the body is largely unable to absorb the calcium in milk. Pasteurization destroys the enzymes needed for absorption. Raw green vegetables are a better source of calcium. Osteoporosis is often caused by a lack of vegetables in the diet.

Reduce Protein

Excess consumption of meat also contributes to calcium deficiency. Too much protein in your diet increases the amount of calcium that is flushed out of the body through urine. Cut down on protein today.

No to Alcohol, Cigarettes

What makes matters worse is that some meat eaters are also heavy drinkers or chain smokers. Alcohol and nicotine are known to interfere with the body's ability to absorb calcium. In the long term, both contribute to lower bone mass. The wise thing to do is to give up both habits gradually.

Supplements May Help

Talk to your doctor about taking supplements like calcium, magnesium, Vitamin E, Vitamin D and zinc. Fresh fruits and vegetables are the best sources of these minerals and vitamins. Supplements are also a good option.