Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become weak and brittle. The density and mass of the bone reduce below normal levels, causing it to break very easily. The bones become so brittle that even a simple fall, cough, or sneeze can damage them. Treatments for osteoporosis often include physical therapy, ongoing exercise, and medications like evenity and prolia. This article discusses a list of seven foods that aggravate osteoporosis and hence should be avoided.

1. Soda

Studies have shown that phosphoric acid present in soda can damage bone density. Hence, people with osteoporosis should reduce or stop having soda.

2. High salt intake

Osteoporosis patients should avoid food with high salt levels. Excess salt causes the loss of calcium in the body, which is not good for the bones. The amount of salt used in foods is high in our country, and hence many are at risk of suffering from this medical condition. Just about 5gms of salt per day is sufficient for an individual. Anything more than this increases the risk of the disease.

3. Excess caffeine

Excess caffeine too needs to be avoided if one is at risk of osteoporosis. Caffeine causes low bone density due to high calcium absorption. According to data from studies, with every 100 milligrams of caffeine consumption, 6 milligrams of calcium is lost. As an alternative, one can switch to decaf coffees and other beverages.

4. Alcohol

Excess alcohol is also harmful for osteoporosis as it reduces the bone mass. Alcohol is not only bad for health but also causes other concerns.

5. Legumes

Legumes contain a fair amount of magnesium and other nutrients. This is good for overall health. However, it also contains phytates, which absorb the calcium from the body. Hence, beans should be eaten in moderation if one has osteoporosis. If one is in love with beans and cannot do without them, they can soak the beans for around two hours before preparation and throw away the water. By doing so, the amount of phytates reduces.

6. Soy products

Soy products are rich in proteins that are good for the bone, but they also contain plant compounds that clog calcium absorption. So, if one has a lot of soy products but not enough calcium, the calcium level will decrease sufficiently in the body, causing osteoporosis. Certain studies have also shown that excess soy consumption reduces bone strength.

7. Sugar products

Studies have shown that excess sweets lead to high blood sugar, elevating calcium excretion. This weakens the bones and increases the risk of osteoporosis. Examples of foods that are high in sugar are cookies, pretzel, bread, and corn chips.