What is Osteopenia?
Osteopenia refers to low bone mineral density. It is a reduction in bone density to below normal levels especially due to inadequate replacement of bone lost to normal degradation. A person who is diagnosed with osteopenia is at risk of developing osteoporosis if he or she does not take corrective measures.
What causes Osteopenia?
It can be due to lifestyle factors such as poor intake of food containing calcium, lack of weight bearing exercises, excess consumption of alcohol and smoking. Osteopenia can also be exacerbated by prolonged use of steroid medications such as those prescribed for asthma.
Women are more at risk of osteopenia than men. They include women with a history of osteopenia in the family, a body weight of less than 58kg and post-menopausal women as a result of decrease in estrogen.
I am in my early thirties, I should be safe?
Women as young as early 30’s may start to lose bone density and most are unaware that they have osteopenia. Women whose menstruation have stopped due to very strenuous exercises or athletic training (female athlete triad syndrome) or eating disorders are at risk of osteopenia.
What should I do if I have all the risk factors?
You should see a doctor and ask if you should be tested for bone thinning. Medication and a diet rich in Vitamin D and calcium are also recommended as they may help reduce the risk of fractures and increase the effectiveness of other treatments.
How do I prevent Osteopenia?
By taking a diet rich in calcium and Vitamin D and food items like yoghurt, milk, cheese, enriched rice, broccoli, seaweed and soy milk. You should also do regular weight bearing exercise.
Adequate intake of calcium
14 to 18 years ---------- 1300mg
19 to 50 years ---------- 1000mg
51 + years --------------- 1200mg