Osteoporosis and Eating Disorders
Anorexic or Bulimic Individuals Have Higher Chance of Bone Loss
Osteo prevention is important for young people, but requires treatment if not enough nutrients are eaten
Individuals who have been anorexic, bulimic or excessively dieting are at a higher risk of osteoporosis. Eating disorders are hard on the body and the lack of nutrients can lead to bone loss.
Osteoporosis
It is a bone disease caused by low bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue. It often leads to fractures, broken bones and bone fragility. The hip, spine and wrist are the most common places of vulnerability.
Drug and Non-Drug TreatmentDrugs are commonly used to make sure there are no bone fractures. Speaking with a physician is extremely important, as they can recommend the best treatment and assist in long term care. A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D will be beneficial no matter which treatment option is chosen. Weight bearing exercises are also valuable, as they build bone strength without drugs.
Osteoporosis Prevention and Exercise
There are ways that one can prevent osteo from developing, the most common being physical activity. It is recommended that children begin to build strong bones this way, as youth is when they develop. It is also advantageous because it helps improve balance, strength, flexibility and posture, which increases coordination and keeps the body from falling.
Symptoms
There are no obvious symptoms of osteoporosis as there are with other physical diseases. Bone loss can accumulate through the years without any outer indications. Sometimes called the “silent thief,” it is dangerous because it’s usually only discovered after a person has fractured a bone or had a heavy fall.
Screening
There are tests that can be done to test a person’s bone density. Scores are compared to a “normal” test of a body of the same age, which allows Doctors to tell whether there has been bone loss or if there’s a risk of permanent damage.
Eating Disorders and Osteo
Those who have anorexia or bulimia have an extremely high rate for osteoporosis. The lack of nutrients, the physical damage done and the often over exercising all contribute to bone loss. This is especially true if the person has an eating disorder when they’re a teenager, as this is the time when bones are developing.
Those who are recovering from an eating disorder should ask their Doctor for a bone density test, regardless of their age. Gentle but weight bearing exercises should then be done in order to strengthen the density. Consulting with a physician is imperative to making sure that no lasting damage has been done or to proceed with treatment if the bones are already weak.
