Are you aware of the fact that diabetes can affect bone health? Surprised isn`t it?

One common health issue many of us have these days is high blood sugar levels or diabetes. If not treated then it might lead to other health complications also. It is a metabolic disorder where the body would not be able to control the blood glucose levels in the target range because of insufficient production of insulin.

How can diabetes affect our bone health?

Diabetes can affect our bone health in these important ways. Take care.

Lowering bone mineral density:

It is noteworthy that when the bones have low mineral density then they are more prone to osteoporosis issues. This can lead to fractures. The ability of the body to form new bone tissue would get impaired when a person has hyperglycemia and this could lead to weaker bones in them with low mineral mass.

High risk of getting fractures:

 Those with diabetes would have low bone mineral density and this would lead to fractures etc. Truth is that the bones would take long time to heal. Areas that would get affected mostly would be hips, wrists and spine etc.

Slowing down bone healing:

Normally, when a bone gets fractured then our body would start its healing process by rebuilding bone tissue with help of osteoblasts. When diabetes is present, the process would get impaired if the blood sugar levels remain high due to reduced function of osteoblasts. Point is that low blood circulation would further delay the healing process.

High risk of inflammation:

The body would get into a state of oxidative damage when a person is diabetic. The body cells of the person would get inflamed. Osteoclasts or bone cells would get activated leading to breakdown of bone tissue.

Bone health management:

By keeping the blood glucose levels in target range:

It is possible to prevent bone issues in diabetic persons by regulating the blood sugar levels. It must be noted that timely medication, wholesome diet and regular physical activity etc would be important.

By weight bearing exercise:

It is necessary to do weight bearing exercises like jogging, running, dancing, aerobics etc for joint and bone strength. These exercises would put stress on the joints and the bones would re-grow and repair themselves.

By consuming high amounts of vitamin D and calcium:

Vitamin d and calcium are needed for the bones to be strong and healthy. For calcium absorption into the bones, our body would need vitamin D. It is essential to eat calcium rich foods like dairy products, leafy green vegetables etc. It is essential to expose ourselves to the morning sunlight for atleast 15 minutes every day for the sake of vitamin D.