While a genetic link to osteoporosis has been discovered, the gene itself has not yet been isolated. Despite this genetic link, scientists have discovered that osteoporosis has a nutritional component. Calcium deficiencies and hormonal deficiencies have also been linked to osteoporosis.
Some people who have no genetic link to osteoporosis find themselves dealing with this condition due to other factors. For example, osteoporosis can be caused by extended treatment with steroids, kidney malfunction, surgical removal of gonads, and extensive burns. Burns cause severe tissue damage, limiting vitamin D synthesis, thereby decreasing calcium absorption.
Calcium Absorption
Even eating large amounts of calcium-rich foods may not be enough to prevent osteoporosis. Researchers have discovered that calcium absorption may be decreased in people with a vitamin D deficiency. Since the kidneys produce vitamin D, damage to the kidneys can often cause this problem. …show more content…
The body breaks down the vitamin so it does not remain in its functional form in the intestines. Without vitamin D in the intestinal receptors, calcium absorption is decreased.
So even eating large amounts of calcium-rich foods such as yogurt, cheese, or broccoli may not be enough to prevent osteoporosis. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommend 1500 mg/day of calcium intake for young adults or those at risk for osteoporosis. Also important is maintaining an active lifestyle and sufficient exposure to the sun to maintain vitamin D synthesis in the skin.
Calcium
Some people who have no genetic link to osteoporosis find themselves dealing with this condition due to other factors. For example, osteoporosis can be caused by extended treatment with steroids, kidney malfunction, surgical removal of gonads, and extensive burns. Burns cause severe tissue damage, limiting vitamin D synthesis, thereby decreasing calcium absorption.
Calcium Absorption
Even eating large amounts of calcium-rich foods may not be enough to prevent osteoporosis. Researchers have discovered that calcium absorption may be decreased in people with a vitamin D deficiency. Since the kidneys produce vitamin D, damage to the kidneys can often cause this problem. …show more content…
The body breaks down the vitamin so it does not remain in its functional form in the intestines. Without vitamin D in the intestinal receptors, calcium absorption is decreased.
So even eating large amounts of calcium-rich foods such as yogurt, cheese, or broccoli may not be enough to prevent osteoporosis. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommend 1500 mg/day of calcium intake for young adults or those at risk for osteoporosis. Also important is maintaining an active lifestyle and sufficient exposure to the sun to maintain vitamin D synthesis in the skin.
Calcium