The Link Between High BMI and Bone Health – Why You Should Be Concerned
The Link Between High BMI and Bone Health – Why You Should Be Concerned
Are you overweight or obese? If so, you may be at increased risk for bone fractures and other problems. That's because there is a strong link between high Body Mass Index (BMI) and poor bone health. Here's what you need to know about this important connection.
What Is BMI?
First, let's review a little bit about BMI. This is an estimate of your body fat percentage based on your height and weight. It is not a perfect measure of health – other factors such as muscle mass, diet, and activity level also play a role in overall wellness. However, it does provide an indication of how much body fat you are carrying – and research shows that excess body fat can have negative impacts on bone health.
How Does BMI Affect Bone Health?
Studies have found that being overweight or obese can lead to decreased bone mineral density (BMD). This means the bones become less dense over time and are more prone to fractures when they experience stress. Being overweight or obese can also cause hormonal changes which further interfere with normal bone formation processes. In addition, people who are overweight may be less likely to exercise regularly, which limits the amount of weight-bearing activity that is necessary for healthy bones.
Reducing BMI
The good news is that keeping your BMI within a healthy range can help protect your bone health. Eating a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, exercising regularly, and maintaining an ideal body weight are all important steps for preserving strong bones. Additionally, if you are already overweight or obese, making even small changes such as cutting back on sugary drinks or increasing daily activity levels can start to make a positive difference in your overall health – including your bone health!
It's essential to understand the link between high BMI and poor bone health because it can provide motivation for making lifestyle changes that will benefit your overall health. Taking steps to ensure your BMI is in the healthy range and engaging in regular physical activity are both important for keeping your bones strong and reducing your risk of fractures over time. Make sure to speak with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about your bone health.
Bariatric Surgery to Improve Bone Health
Bariatric surgery can help restore overall health, including bone health for those who struggle to lose weight or keep it off with diet and exercise. Both type 2 diabetes and general obesity play a role in weakening bones and reducing bone density which can be reversed with bariatric surgery. It has been found that within several months after the process, significant improvements in bone health metabolism were seen across patients. The procedure works to reduce fat deposits that impede the intake of essential vitamins and nutrients necessary to maintain bone health - it's no wonder there are already countless cases of success stories around this type of procedure. Bariatric surgery is proving to be an invaluable option for those seeking to better manage their bone health long term.
The information provided above should not be used in place of medical advice. If you think that you may be at risk for poor bone health, please talk to a healthcare professional about the best options for monitoring and protecting your bones. With the right knowledge and support, you can make positive choices that will benefit your overall health – including your bone health!
Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about your bone health. If you are considering bariatric surgery, contact Houston Weight Loss to schedule a free consultation. With the right knowledge and support, you can make positive choices that will benefit your overall health – including your bone health!