Alcohol abuse may harm different parts of our body and in certain cases, it may also lead to death. Osteoporosis is considered to be one of the harmful effect of alcoholism. A lot of evidence is found which clearly shows that alcohol abuse may decrease bone density. This may lead to an increase in fractures. Low bone mass is also found in about 25 to 50% men who seek medical help in case of alcohol abuse. Reducing the consumption of alcohol may result in reducing the chances of osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis is a condition which is characterized by the loss of normal bone density. This may lead to fragile bones. It may also lead to abnormally porous bones which are compressible like a sponge. This disorder weakens the bone and thus increases the risk of bone fracture.
Calcium plays an important role in the body. It serves as a key nutrient and aids in maintaining bone density. Most of the body's calcium is stored in the bones and teeth. The remaining 1% of calcium is found in the blood. Levels of calcium in the blood depend upon the nutrients consumed in a diet.
Along with this, factors such as how well the nutrient is absorbed, and how much of it is excreted, also play an important role. Calcium balance is maintained by various factors like parathyroid hormone (PTH) and vitamin D.
Alcohol intake can disrupt calcium balance in different ways. Excess intake of alcohol may increase the PTH levels. In cases of chronic alcohol abuse, parathyroid hormone in the blood can be elevated. This may lead to the shortage of the body's calcium reserves. In alcoholics, higher levels of parathyroid hormone may lead to a condition known as secondary hyperparathyroidism. This may lead to the further depletion of calcium stores.
Alcohol may also reduce the production of enzymes that are found in the liver and kidney. These enzymes convert the inactive form of vitamin D into its active form. This reduction in vitamin D metabolism may cause impairment of calcium absorption. Vitamin D deficiency can then lead to osteomalacia. This is a bone condition which is associated with severe pain, fractures as well as deformity. Alcohol also increases the chance of magnesium excretion which has an impact on the bone health.
Exercise, quitting cigarettes and curtailing alcohol are some of the ways which may reduce the chances of osteoporosis. Apart from these life style changes, you will have take proper medicines in case you are suffering from osteoporosis.
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