The skeletal system consists of hundreds of bones, ranging in size from the very large leg bones to the tiny bones deep inside the ears. Bone health is as vital as the health of the heart or any other organ. Nutritional deficiencies can weaken a skeletal system, resulting in pain, decreased mobility and quality of life. Deficiencies may be caused by poor food choices, lack of food, or certain drugs, alcohol or gastric bypass surgeries, resulting in decreased nutrient absorption.
Arthritis
There are three types of arthritis, osteoarthritis being the most common. It is a chronic, degenerative disorder characterized by loss of cartilage, and can happen to both men and women. Rheumatoid arthritis, the second most common type of arthritis, involves the immune system, which sets it apart from other joint pain illnesses. Gout is the least common and occurs mainly in men. Gout is characterized by a chronic elevation in serum uric acid levels, causing crystals to form and collect in joints and soft tissues. This collection of crystals results in sudden, severe pain, with tenderness, redness and swelling of joints–specifically ankles, knees and toes.
Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, omega 3 fatty acids from nuts, seeds and fish, plenty of water, and low in processed foods and red meats may help alleviate arthritis pain.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by weak, soft and porous bones. It can result in breaks or fractures, and is seen in men and women of all ages and ethnicities. Participating in weight-bearing exercise and maintaining adequate calcium and vitamin D intake are the best ways to prevent osteoporosis. Calcium can be consumed in foods such as dairy products and dark green leafy vegetables, but can also be supplemented in pill form. Many calcium supplements contain vitamin D as a complimentary ingredient.
Rickets and Osteomalacia
Rickets is bone disease found in children that results in soft, weak bones. It is characterized by significantly bowed legs and is caused by a vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D is mainly obtained through skin exposure to the sun. About 15 minutes of sun exposure every day meets the recommended daily allowance for vitamin D. If this is not possible to attain, vitamin D can be supplemented under the care of a physician.
Osteomalacia is an adult disease similar to rickets in children. It is caused by inadequate vitamin D intake or an alteration in vitamin D metabolism. Osteomalacia causes bones to soften just like in rickets. Osteomalacia is different from osteoporosis in that bones become softer, not more porous, and bones are not more prone to breaking but bending and deforming. Treatment may include supplementation of vitamin D and calcium.
About this Author
Kelly Slattery is a registered dietitian who has been employed in the hospital setting since 2003. Slattery has written several articles published in local publications such as hospital and community newsletters. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in nutrition in 2002 and is currently working towards a master’s degree in health care administration.
