Diabetes and osteoporosis are mutually exclusive diseases. Diabetes can increase your chance of developing osteoporosis, and having osteoporosis might make controlling your diabetes more difficult.
Diabetes and osteoporosis are two illnesses that might strike at the same time. The relationship between these two conditions is complex, but they do not cause one another.
Diabetes raises the risk of osteoporosis, and osteoporosis can make diabetes treatment more difficult. This essay will go over how the two conditions are related and what you can do to handle them effectively.
Is diabetes a risk factor for osteoporosis?
Diabetes is not the cause of osteoporosis.
Diabetes, particularly type 1 diabetes, does, however, increase your risk.A reliable source for growing osteoporosis.
This is due to the fact that persons with type 1 diabetes frequently have weaker and lower bone density, as well as a sevenfold increased risk of fractures.
The following factors can raise or decrease your risk of bone fracture:
the amount of time you’ve had diabetes blood sugar management, especially if you’re more prone to low blood sugar whether you take insulin or not, as this can be linked to low blood sugar reductions that lead to increased risk
What is the impact of diabetes on your bones?
Diabetes can harm your bones in a variety of ways.
Type 1 and type 2 diabetes can both cause an increase in osteoclast function.However, it reduces osteoblast function, resulting in increased bone loss, osteopenia, and osteoporosis. Chronic high blood sugar levels stimulate the synthesis of macrophage colony-stimulating factor (MCSF), which decreases bone density further.
The formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) also reduces bone density. AGEs are proteins or lipids that become glycated after being exposed to carbohydrates, such as the excess glucose in diabetics’ bloodstream. AGEs are commonly found in diabetes vasculature, where they contribute to low impact or brittle bone fractures.
Diabetes symptoms such as muscle weakness, eyesight problems, low blood sugar, and neuropathy in the feet can all lead to an increase in falls and fractures.
Lower bone mass as well as a history of fractures both raise the chance of developing osteoporosis later in life.
How can you keep your bones healthy if you have diabetes?
Osteoporosis is a condition that, with the appropriate tactics, may often be avoided.
If you have diabetes, there are various things you may do to safeguard your bones:
Obtain a bone density test.
Request a bone-density test, such as the DEXA scan, from your doctor. A low-dose X-ray is used to determine your bone mineral density (BMD). It takes less than 20 minutes to complete and provides real-time feedback on your risk of bone loss and osteoporosis.
Concentrate on nutrition.
Diabetes patients are typically deficient in vitamin D. However, vitamin D is required for the body to absorb and utilize calcium correctly. Increase your intake of both, either through food or a daily supplement.
If you suspect that your vitamin D levels are low, request a blood test from your doctor. You can acquire a prescription strength vitamin D supplement if your levels are low enough.
Aim for at least 15 mcg (600 IU) of vitamin D daily for persons 1 year and older. Consult your doctor if your child is under the age of one year. If a person has diabetes, they may require more than 600 IU per day to boost their vitamin D levels. Adults above the age of 71 should take 800 IU.
Discuss your personalized daily vitamin D recommendations with your doctor.
Exercise on a regular basis.
Regular exercise, particularly strength training and weightlifting, can aid with bone health. Regular exercise helps to prevent bone loss and increases not only your strength but also your balance and flexibility. This can help reduce falls, which raise your chances of getting osteoporosis.
Exercise also helps persons with diabetes maintain healthy blood sugar levels, thus physical activity benefits both illnesses.
Maintain a healthy way of life
The following adjustments in your lifestyle can help preserve your bones from osteoporosis and minimize your chance of falling:
Smoking should be avoided. Smoking prevents your body from absorbing vitamins.
Consume alcohol in moderation.
Get some sunlight, which is another excellent source of vitamin D.
Consume a well-balanced diet.
Take calcium and vitamin D pills.
Maintain a healthy blood sugar level.
Have your eyes and vision examined on a regular basis.
Get some exercise on a regular basis.
These healthy living practices also help with diabetic control, making them ideal for anyone suffering from osteoporosis, diabetes, or both.
What effect does osteoporosis have on diabetes?
Diabetes can be impacted by osteoporosis in a variety of ways.
If you fall frequently, you may be more prone to break bones, which can be harmful if you have diabetes-related eyesight problems or experience frequent low blood sugar.
Furthermore, osteoporosis can make regular physical activity more difficult, making blood sugar management more stressful and irritating.
If you have osteoporosis and it is interfering with your diabetes control, consult your doctor. They may have recommended solutions that can assist you.
Takeaway
Diabetes and osteoporosis are comorbidities, although neither causes the other. Diabetes can increase your chance of developing osteoporosis, and having osteoporosis might make controlling your diabetes more difficult.
If you have diabetes, you can help protect your bone health and prevent osteoporosis by getting enough calcium and vitamin D supplementation, exercising regularly, including strength training, getting a bone-density test, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol, and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.
