Most people take their skeletal system for granted. It’s always there underneath the skin and muscles, giving us support, enabling us to move, and protecting many of our vital organs. It continually takes in nutrients from the foods and beverages we consume and automatically uses them to regenerate itself. It even stores nutrients and releases them for the rest of the body to use as needed. What happens when a person doesn’t consume enough of those necessary nutrients, though? That, combined with other factors, can cause serious side effects over time.
While you may not notice the impacts immediately, they’ll most likely arise later in life, particularly after the age of 40. Reports from the medical sector show that an estimated 10 million Americans suffer from osteoporosis, a condition that affects bone strength and density. Another 44 million are living with low bone density, which places them at an increased risk of developing the condition. Fortunately, there are steps you can take now to help prevent osteoporosis down the road, including taking the Osteo Vegan bone supplement from NuMedica and making certain lifestyle changes.
Taking Bone Health Supplements
Calcium is the main nutrient our bones need to stay strong and continue to regenerate. Studies show that over 40 percent of adults in America don’t consume enough calcium, though. That number is even higher among women, and women are the most at risk of developing osteoporosis. On top of that, vitamin D is essential for proper calcium absorption, and more than 90 percent of Americans don’t take in enough of it through diet alone. Supplements that contain natural sources of calcium along with other nutrients that are crucial for bone health, like strontium, vitamin D, B vitamins, and phosphorus, can help bridge the gap.
Making Dietary Changes
Supplements certainly help people ramp up their intake of nutrients that are essential for bone health. Of course, consuming foods that are rich in those vitamins and minerals is also important. Many people think of dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, when they’re looking for calcium-rich foods, but those aren’t the only sources of this crucial nutrient. Many others also contain high levels of calcium to help support bone health, including several that are vegan and vegetarian friendly.
Avoiding Alcohol and Smoking
Another way to help reduce the risks of developing osteoporosis is by avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Both of those habits can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb nutrients, which hampers bone regeneration and healing. Alcohol can also impair the cells that are responsible for creating new bone tissue while smoking can reduce blood flow and oxygen delivery to the bones. As a result, smoking and alcohol consumption can lead to softer, weaker bones.
Getting Plenty of Exercise
Finally, it’s important to get plenty of exercise. Physical activity not only strengthens the muscles and improves stamina but also improves bone strength and health. It places gentle pressure on the bones, which prompts them to gradually grow stronger. It also increases blood flow, which aids in delivering oxygen and nutrients to the bones to help them regenerate more effectively. Those are only a few of the bone health benefits of regular exercise.
Keeping Your Bones Healthy for Life
We all need strong, healthy bones. In our younger years, that’s often a given. Most people give little thought to the fact that what they do in their younger years can affect their health in many ways later on whether it’s for better or worse. Ignoring bone health in your 20s and 30s can have serious repercussions once you reach the age of 40 and beyond. With the measures mentioned here, though, you can keep your bones stronger so they can continue to support you well into the future.