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Daily Health Tips update for January 29:It’s easy to take our bones for granted. But they’re a resource and they need to be nurtured throughout our lives in order to be strong and healthy when we’re older. Read on to find out surprising facts about bones:
- They’re Alive! Bone cells (osteoblasts) are constantly turning out new bone while other cells (osteoclasts) destroy it. This why bone tissue is able to regenerate after a break.
- Nourish with Movement. Playing sports, lifting weights, running and other activities trigger bones to lay down more minerals and get stronger and denser.
- Bones Store Minerals. Bones release extra minerals, like calcium and phosphate, along with heavy metals, when your body needs them.
- Booze is Bad. Too much alcohol can cause a problem for bones. Heavy drinking over time can cause calcium deficiency and even severe bone thinning.
- Weight Strengthens Bones. While bad for health, extra weight, like the kind that cushions the thighs and butt, has been shown to increase bone strength by laying down more bone minerals.
- Belly Fat is Bad for Bones. While some extra weight can strengthen bones, that fact doesn’t apply when it comes to belly fat. Abdominal fat increases the risk of bone thinning and osteoporosis.
- Bone Medications Don’t Always Help. Drugs to help bones aren’t for everyone. Some can be hard on the stomach and in rare cases can be linked to fractures and jaw problems.
- Dentists Can Reveal Bone Health. Dentists are able to spot the signs of osteoporosis as easily as your regular doctor. When the jawbone loses density, it results in loose teeth, receding gums or ill-fitting dentures.
- Foods Good for Bones (other than milk). Everyone knows that milk is good for healthy bones, but other foods that promote healthy bones include yogurt, cheese, almonds and green vegetables. Fruits and other veggies may help buffer acid, which isn’t good for bones.
- Hip Fractures are Common. Osteoporosis-related fractures are a high concern, especially in the over 65 crowd. Women have a higher risk of a broken hip than breast, ovarian and uterine cancer combined.
- Breaks Weaken Bones. While bone fractures heal well, it won’t end up being stronger than it was before the break.
- Ethnicity Affects Bone Health. Anyone can develop osteoporosis, but the chance increases if you’re a woman and you’re of European or Asian descent.
Source: Health Magazine
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