What is bone mass?
Bone mass, also known as bone density, represents the quantity of minerals (mainly calcium and phosphorus) contained in a volume of bone. It is an indicator of bone strength and resistance. Good bone mass is crucial to avoid diseases such as osteoporosis, which is characterized by a decrease in bone density, thus increasing the risk of fractures.
How is bone mass measured?
Bone mass is generally measured by bone densitometry, also known as dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). This non-invasive test measures bone mineral density and compares your results with established normal values, thus determining your risk of fracture.
What factors affect bone mass?
Several factors can influence your bone mass:
How can we prevent bone mass loss?
To maintain optimal bone mass, we recommend :
What are the consequences of low bone mass?
Low bone mass can significantly increase the risk of fractures, particularly in areas such as the hips, wrists and spine. It can also lead to reduced mobility and increased dependence on daily activities, impacting on quality of life.
What diseases are associated with low bone mass?
Low bone mass is mainly associated with osteoporosis, a disease that makes bones brittle and more prone to fracture. However, other medical conditions can also influence bone density, such as osteopenia (bone density below the normal normal without reaching the osteoporosis threshold), Paget's disease (a bone disease that can cause bone deformities), and certain endocrine metabolic diseases such as hyperparathyroidism.
What role does calcium play in maintaining good bone mass?
Calcium is an essential mineral for the development and maintenance of bone mass. It helps build and strengthen bone architecture. A calcium-rich diet is crucial during the growing years and helps reduce the rate of bone degradation as you age. Dietary sources of calcium include milk and milk derivatives, green leafy vegetables and calcium-enriched products.
How does lifestyle influence bone mass?
Lifestyle has a significant impact on bone mass. Positive factors include a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, regular physical activity involving weight and resistance exercises, and the absence of harmful behaviors such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Conversely, a sedentary lifestyle, a diet low in essential nutrients, and the consumption of toxic substances can accelerate bone density loss.
Can lost bone mass be restored?
Although it is difficult to completely restore bone mass once it has been significantly lost, certain measures can help stabilize and improve bone density. Medical treatments, such as bisphosphonates, can help prevent bone loss and increase bone density in some cases. In addition, a change in diet, the addition of vitamin D and calcium supplements, and a suitable exercise program can contribute to significant improvements.
What impact does age have on bone mass?
Age is one of the determining factors in bone mass. Bone density increases during childhood and adolescence, peaks in the late twenties and early thirties, and then begins to decline. This decline accelerates particularly in women after the menopause, due to falling levels of estrogen, a hormone that helps protect bone density. So, as age advances, the risk of developing low bone mass and associated diseases increases.
