Bones are what give our body its proper shape and protect vital organs. During youth, the growth and density of bones are very high. But after the age of thirty, old bones start to break faster than new bone cells are produced. Due to this, the bones become weak and brittle, and they break easily like a piece of wood. Scientifically, this is called osteoporosis. Here are the 5 main scientific reasons behind the decrease in bone strength:
Calcium and Vitamin D3 Deficiency (Nutritional Deficiencies): Calcium is the most important element for the construction and strength of bones. But when calcium in the blood decreases, the body starts to pull the calcium stored in the bones. This weakens the bones. Along with this, the body needs Vitamin D3 to absorb the calcium in the food we eat in the intestines. In those who do not get enough sun exposure and do not eat nutritious food, their deficiency directly causes bone loss.
Hormonal Changes and Menopause & Estrogen Drop: The most important scientific reason for bone loss in women is menopause. The female hormone estrogen helps maintain bone density. However, after the age of 45-50, when menstruation stops, the level of estrogen in the body drops sharply. This leads to rapid destruction of bone cells and rapid bone loss (Osteopenia). In men, a decrease in the hormone testosterone can also affect bones.
Sedentary Lifestyle: In those who always sit and work without exercise, the body is not interested in strengthening the bones. Mechanical stress, which occurs when we walk or lift weights, signals the body to build new bone cells. When we stop doing hard work or exercise, bones lose calcium and become weak quickly.
Excessive use of caffeine and carbonated drinks: Drinking tea, coffee (Caffeine) several times a day and consuming carbonated soft drinks like cola and soda in excess is harmful to bones. The phosphoric acid in these drinks causes the body to excrete calcium excessively through urine. This is the main culprit in reducing bone density. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can hinder the growth of bone cells.
Long-term use of certain medications (Steroid Medications): People who take steroid pills for allergies, asthma, arthritis, and skin diseases for a long time, whether prescribed by a doctor or not, often experience a significant decrease in bone strength. Steroids prevent the body from absorbing calcium and speed up the process of bone loss. Thyroid hormone fluctuations can also weaken bones.
