Osteoporosis

Bone substance is constantly being built up and destroyed throughout life, in both men and women. This continuous process serves to renew and maintain bone. Up to the age of 35, bone mass formation is the major part of this process. As we age, bone mass slowly diminishes.

This process is also regulated by hormones, with 2 hormones produced by the body, calcitonin and parathormone, playing a decisive role and regulating each other. Calcitonin, produced by the thyroid gland, inhibits bone-degrading cells, while parathormone, produced by the parathyroid gland, stimulates bone formation. In women, these 2 hormones are controlled by estrogen.

With the disappearance of estrogen production at menopause, the bone metabolism of post-menopausal women undergoes significant changes. The result is a further reduction in bone mass (bone loss). In fact, 80-90% of osteoporosis in women is due to the physiological fall in estradiol levels associated with the menopause. ¹

Here again, acting independently is a good counter-strategy, for example by :

• adopting a healthy diet rich in calcium. A glass of milk, a yoghurt and a piece of cheese are recommended at least once a day. ²
• drinking around 2 liters of water a day. Mineral water is a good source of calcium. ²
• Regular physical activity. This promotes bone metabolism and strengthens bones. Since the strongest stimulus to bone metabolism comes from stressing the skeleton in an upright position, walking, hiking and Nordic walking are particularly recommended. ³
• reducing alcohol and nicotine consumption. ²