When it comes to maintaining our health and wellness, our bones are some of the most at-risk factors because of age and lifestyle. Chronic conditions can develop, like osteoarthritis and osteoporosis, and these can take a significant toll on the quality of life an individual can have. There is still a lot left to study and learn about bone health and the diseases and conditions that affect it, hence the consistent need for healthy patients in clinical trials.
To promote the best bone health and combat the development of certain conditions, you should be aware of the correct facts and practices in life. Some myths remain ever popular these days, and this knowledge can be harmful. Check out some of these common bone myths you should steer clear of:
- “You need milk for healthy bones.”
Dairy indeed has calcium that has been proven beneficial to maintaining bone strength and density. However, it won’t do you good to consume too much milk with the idea that it will protect you from fractures and age-related issues better. Studies are suggesting that milk’s direct benefits on your bones only last for a couple of years. From there, there’s not much improvement to be found unless you have no other source of calcium (which is unlikely).
You can still drink milk if you please, but it should no longer be looked at as a necessity that will safeguard you from developing bone problems. If anything, you may want to watch your intake and try not to go overboard with dairy as it also comes with its fair share of health risk factors that may outweigh its benefits if overdone.
- “Osteoporosis is unavoidable.”
There is a general idea that practically everyone will get osteoporosis as they get older, especially women. However, that isn’t necessarily the case. Although bone density and mass does inevitably lessen with age, it doesn’t automatically mean you will get osteoporosis. It’s important to note that bone diseases need to be taken seriously, and it’s crucial to prevent conditions like this by employing healthy lifestyle habits.
The important thing is to consider risk factors and accordingly adjust so that you don’t move from weaker bones to a full-on development of osteoporosis. Good exercise, proper intake of nutrients, and cutting out alcohol and smoking are crucial in the prevention process, especially for women over the age of 50.
- “A broken bone will heal into a stronger one.”
There is a commonly spread idea that when you break a bone, it comes back stronger than before when it is fully healed. To an extent, it is mostly false. For a brief period during the healing process, callus membrane forms around the fracture site, making it denser and stronger than all the surrounding bone and, arguably, even the original bone itself in its previous state. However, it’s important to note that it is temporary and is simply the body’s way of protecting the area while it develops new bone that is permanent.
When everything is settled and the compact bone is formed, it will be no stronger or weaker than its previous iteration or the areas surrounding it, and it will be at just as much risk for injury.
By knowing these common myths, you can be more proactive about your bone health. You can adequately take care of yourself without misconceptions getting in the way.
Meta Title: Misconceptions You Should Know About Bone Health
Meta Description: Some of the most dangerous things in healthcare are misinformation, so make sure you know about these popular myths regarding your bones.
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