Osteoporosis

Diet and nutrition can play an important role in both preventing and managing low bone density and osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to become weaker and more prone to breaks and fractures.

Who is at the most risk of osteoporosis?

More than 3 million people in the UK are living with osteoporosis, making it relatively common. It mostly affects women (bone density can decline rapidly after the menopause, increasing the risk), although men can develop it too. It can sometimes run in families, plus having other conditions (such as thyroid and adrenal gland disorders, or Crohn’s disease), or a history of eating disorders or alcoholism, can make you more at risk of developing it.

Treatment

Osteoporosis can have a significant impact on quality of life if it becomes severe, resulting in pain and, in some cases, loss of mobility. The good news is, there are things we can do to help, particularly during the early stages. Medication, diet and nutritional supplements, alongside a balanced, active lifestyle with regular exercise can all play a part.

Hadley Wood Hospital’s dietitian can help devise diet and nutrition plans tailored specifically to your individual health and needs. Alongside this, we can provide general lifestyle advice to support your goals and overall wellbeing, and help you feel in control of managing your health.