Osteoporosis Causes & Risks

Obesity is one of the most common risk factors for osteoarthritis. Obesity causes an increase in mechanical stress and pressure on joints, which wears away the cartilage that normally protects the joints and causes pain and inflammation. Weight loss... Full Answer

Being underweight for your height increases your risk of fractures and osteoporosis while being overweight lowers your risk. It is possible that having more fat tissue influences either the production of estrogen by fat cells or the effect of... Full Answer

Chocolate, caffeine, colas, animal protein, and high-sodium foods are considered “bone robbers” that contribute to bone loss. Some of them, like colas, contain ingredients that leach calcium from bones. Full Answer

Primary osteoarthritis tends to occur after age 45. A combination of genetic predisposition and normal "wear and tear" of the joints from repetitive microtrauma may contribute to its development. Full Answer

A diet too high in animal protein such as meat and fish may be a key player in bone loss. Protein is made up of amino acids. When digested in the body, they increase the acidity of the blood. One of the substances the body releases to neutralize... Full Answer

Some studies show that restricting sodium reduces the body’s calcium excretion and may reduce bone loss and hip fractures. One key study found that cutting sodium intake by half allows you to retain about 18% more calcium. Although many... Full Answer

After age 35 or later, our bodies lose bone mass faster than it is built. This happens in both genders but is more common at an earlier age in women. As a woman’s estrogen production declines around menopause, her rate of bone loss... Full Answer

No. Although years ago osteoporosis was considered as much a part of aging as wrinkles or gray hair, researchers in recent years have determined that osteoporosis is a specific disease that is preventable.  Full Answer

Excessive alcohol intake can increase your risk of osteoporosis and fractures. The exact amount of alcohol that is considered excessive is not known; some researchers say more than three drinks a day or more than 12 in a week can lower bone... Full Answer

Although most common in postmenopausal women, loss of bone density can occur in anyone. Usage of corticosteroids, including prednisone, may increase the risk of osteoporosis. Having multiple sclerosis (MS) is also a risk factor. Depending on your... Full Answer