What is osteoporosis in children?

When it comes to osteoporosis, everyone probably thinks it is a disease exclusive to the elderly. Indeed, most osteoporosis patients are elderly. However, this disease tends to occur at a younger age. Some young people are also troubled by this disease, and some patients even have the hidden danger of osteoporosis in childhood. So, what is osteoporosis in children? See below for more information.

Although osteoporosis is a disease of the elderly, this only means that the onset of the disease is in the middle and elderly stages of life, and its related causes have been lurking since childhood. "Poor nutrition and lack of physical exercise at any time in life will increase the risk of osteoporosis. Childhood and adolescence are critical stages of bone development. Before the age of 20, more than 90% of the peak bone density can be obtained, and the bone mass reaches the highest value at the age of 30, which is called "peak bone mass." Obtaining the best and most ideal peak bone mass and preventing the loss of bone minerals are undoubtedly the key to fighting osteoporosis.

Although 70% to 80% of peak bone mass is determined by genetic factors, the remaining 20% ​​to 30% depends on environmental factors. Studies have shown that paying attention to a balanced diet and increasing physical exercise are beneficial to the storage of bone minerals and the establishment of peak bone mass. Therefore, starting from childhood, children should eat foods high in calcium, such as dairy products, soy products, dried shrimps, fish, mushrooms, fungus, green leafy vegetables and appropriate amounts of protein. At the same time, pay attention to receiving sufficient sunlight and appropriately supplement vitamin D to promote calcium absorption.

We must pay high attention and special care to the high-risk groups for osteoporosis mentioned above, and take bone protection measures. Different prevention and treatment methods can be given according to the characteristics of different populations and individual differences. If conditions permit, they can have their bone density measured regularly, and be supplemented with calcium and vitamin D based on the amount and rate of bone mineral loss, as well as appropriate estrogen replacement therapy. At the same time, regular physical examinations are crucial for this group of middle-aged and elderly people. If related diseases are discovered early, they can be eliminated in the bud to avoid affecting the bones.

What is osteoporosis in children? For many children, parents must pay more attention to taking care of them, make their diet more balanced, and prevent them from being partial or picky eaters. Then, they should let their children participate in more physical exercise so that they can grow up healthily. It is best to give your child more calcium supplements to prevent osteoporosis in the future.