Osteoporosis is a silent enemy of the bone system!

Osteoporosis is a serious health condition affecting millions of people worldwide. It is a disease characterized by a progressive deterioration of bone mass. In this guide, we will explore exactly what osteoporosis is, how it manifests, its risk factors, how it is diagnosed, as well as the best ways for prevention and treatment.

What is osteoporosis and how does it manifest?

Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by a decrease in bone density and a weakening of their structure. Bones become brittle and prone to fractures, even during everyday and harmless activities, such as simple walking, bending over, or lifting objects.

In medicine, osteoporosis is often called the "silent killer" because in its early stages there are usually no obvious symptoms or pain, until a sudden bone fracture occurs (most commonly the hip, vertebrae, or wrist).

Bones in our body are living tissue that is constantly renewing. The renewal process involves a constant balance between the creation of new bone and the breakdown of old bone. When this process is disrupted, bones become thinner, more porous, and weaker.

Main risk factors

There are various risk factors that can significantly increase the likelihood of developing this condition:

• Age: Older people are at a much higher risk as bone density naturally decreases as we age.
• Gender: Women are incomparably more susceptible to osteoporosis than men, especially during and after menopause, when protective estrogen levels drop drastically.
• Genetics: Individuals whose immediate family members had osteoporosis (or frequent fractures) have a higher risk.
• Calcium and Vitamin D deficiency: A deficit of these key nutrients directly reduces bone mineral density.
• Physical inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle contributes to the rapid weakening of the skeletal and muscular systems.
• Medication use: Long-term corticosteroid therapy can severely damage bones.
• Associated diseases: Hormonal disorders (e.g., thyroid gland), gastrointestinal problems (poor absorption), and rheumatoid arthritis.

Diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis

Diagnosis is most reliably performed through a specific test called a DXA scan (osteodensitometry). This painless test accurately measures bone density and determines fracture risk. Also, laboratory tests of calcium and vitamin D levels in the blood are performed.

Treatment of osteoporosis usually involves lifestyle changes, nutrition, and medical therapy. Regular physical activity (weight-bearing exercises), quitting smoking, and avoiding alcohol are included. As for medications, bisphosphonates, hormone therapy, and innovative biological drugs are most commonly prescribed, exclusively on the recommendation of a specialist.

Prevention: How to preserve healthy bones?

Prevention should begin long before menopause or old age. Key steps are:

• Proper nutrition: Intake of foods rich in calcium (dairy products, green vegetables, nuts) and mandatory supplementation with vitamin D3 (especially during the winter months).
• Regular activity: Strength exercises stimulate bone-building cells and improve balance, reducing the risk of falls.
• Home safety: Reduce the risk of falls by keeping rooms well-lit, removing slippery rugs, and thresholds you could trip over.

Best supplements for joints and bones

If diet is not enough, dietary supplements are necessary for cartilage regeneration and preserving bone mass. We highlight 5 premium, most sought-after preparations from our offer: