Osteoporosis: Prevention information from the specialist for Worms
What patients in Worms can actively do to protect themselves from osteoporosis
WORMS. Osteoporosis is a skeletal disease that occurs more frequently in old age. But it is not an inevitable fate: “Whether and how much the bones lose substance also depends on the individual’s lifestyle,” emphasizes Prof. Dr. med. Christian Wüster, an endocrinologist who also specializes in treating osteoporosis patients from Worms. The expert emphasizes a healthy, needs-based diet and exercise into old age as key factors in prevention.
Specialist for Worms: Prevent osteoporosis with vitamin D and calcium
What should I look out for in my diet? According to Prof. Dr. Wüster, our skeleton primarily needs sufficient vitamin D and calcium. “Remodeling processes are constantly taking place in the bones. The body needs calcium to build new bone tissue. Vitamin D helps with the absorption of calcium and supports its storage in the bones,” explains the expert. “Calcium is mainly found in dairy products. Green vegetables and mineral water are also good sources. The body can produce vitamin D itself – but only if we spend a lot of time in the sun.
Otherwise, we can also get vitamin D from meat, fatty fish or eggs,” explains Prof. Dr. Wüster. The specialist observes a widespread undersupply of vitamin D in the population. In order to ensure optimal supply, dietary supplements can therefore be useful, which are best taken after consulting a doctor.
According to the specialist in Worms, physical activity is essential for preventing osteoporosis
Regular exercise is also an effective and inexpensive way to combat osteoporosis. “Not only our muscles, but also our bones break down when we are inactive. Sporting activities signal to the body that the bones are still needed. This stimulates the formation of new bone tissue,” explains specialist Prof. Dr. Wüster. Regular exercise also improves coordination and balance, which prevents falls. In addition to endurance sports such as walking, targeted muscle training is also recommended in order to maintain muscle mass into old age.
