Keesha Ewers‘ (PhD, ARNP-FNP-C, AAP, IFM-C) mission is not just to help over one million people around the globe build stronger bones, but to ensure that our children and grandchildren have the education, resources, and nourishment needed to prevent osteoporosis and other diseases in the future. By doing so, they can lead long and active lives.
Understanding Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis, which literally means porous bone, is a condition characterized by either insufficient bone formation, excessive bone loss, or a combination of the two. This can lead to an increased risk of fractures, particularly in older adults.
The Importance of Bone Density Scans
Bone density scans, or DEXA scans, measure the mineral content of your bones, providing a baseline for monitoring bone health over time. It is typically recommended for individuals over 65 or 70, although some doctors may suggest earlier scans for those at high risk. These scans can also help identify heavy metal toxicity, which can contribute to osteoporosis and other health issues.
Factors Contributing to Osteoporosis
Several factors can contribute to osteoporosis, including menopause in women, environmental toxins, autoimmune conditions, and inadequate peak bone mass. Long-term inflammation in the body can also contribute to bone loss, affecting both men and women.
The Role of Gut Health in Bone Health
The health of your gut plays a significant role in your overall bone health. Damaged or insufficient absorption of nutrients due to poor gut health can hinder the body’s ability to build stronger bones, as well as heal wounds and grow hair or nails.
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Diet and Nutrition for Osteoporosis
There is no one-size-fits-all diet for osteoporosis and bone health. However, a diet rich in nutrients and tailored to an individual’s specific needs is essential. For example, fish is a great food choice for many, as it is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients beneficial for bone health.
The Limitations of Conventional Treatments
Conventional treatments for osteoporosis, such as bisphosphonates, may not always be effective and can have potential side effects. In some cases, long-term use of these medications can lead to the development of microcracks and fractures in the bones.
Conclusion
To effectively address osteoporosis, it is vital to consider all contributing factors, including gut health, diet, and environmental toxins. It is important to get a bone density scan, address any hormonal imbalances, and ensure adequate sleep, among other lifestyle changes.
FAQ
Can osteoporosis be reversed?
As stated by Keesha Ewers, PhD, “you’ve got cells inside your body that are specifically designed to help you rebuild your bones.” However, it is important to note that “if you have a three to 5% improvement in a year, that’s really good.” Thus, while it may not be possible to completely reverse osteoporosis, it is possible to improve bone health and slow down bone loss.
Is weight-bearing exercise enough to improve bone health?
According to Keesha Ewers, PhD, “most people when they’re told they have low bone density, they say, ‘Hey, go do some weight-bearing exercise, go for a walk.’ I can tell you right now that’s not going to be enough.” It is crucial to also focus on proper nutrition, addressing any underlying health issues, and monitoring bone density through scans to ensure overall bone health.
How does gut health affect bone health?
Keesha Ewers, PhD explains the connection between gut health and bone health as follows: “If those villi are damaged or something’s preventing you from absorbing those nutrients, you’re gonna have a really hard time getting the proper inputs you need to build stronger outputs, whether that’s healing a cut on your hand, growing your hair or fingernails, or rebuilding stronger bones.” In other words, maintaining good gut health is essential for proper nutrient absorption, which in turn supports bone health.
How do environmental factors contribute to osteoporosis?
Keesha Ewers, PhD mentions that “there are all kinds of other reasons that we get osteoporosis and we’ll talk about things like celiac, and I’m finding also the number of estrogen-mimicking and reproducing chemicals that are dumped in our environment that are making men take on estrogen that that’s affecting their bones too.” This highlights the role that environmental factors, such as exposure to estrogen-like chemicals, can play in the development of osteoporosis.
Taking Action
Don’t wait until it’s too late to address your bone health. If you or a loved one is concerned about osteoporosis, take action now by scheduling a bone density scan, evaluating your diet and nutrition, and consulting with a healthcare professional to develop a personalized plan for building stronger bones. Together, we can work towards preventing osteoporosis and ensuring a healthier future for ourselves and our loved ones. Act now and invest in your bone health today.
