(Tips for promoting healthy bones for diabetic patients)
Diabetes increases your risk of developing several bone and joint problems. People with poorly controlled diabetes may experience more bone loss than those with strictly controlled diabetes. Hence, it’s essential to maintain blood glucose levels as close to normal as you can in order to prevent any bone problems. In this blog let’s see the bone and joint problems associated with diabetes and how to manage it.
Bone and joint problems associated with diabetes
Diabetes patients are more likely to have various bone and joint conditions, including:
- Osteoporosis- Bones that are extremely weak due to inadequate bone mineral density
- Osteoarthritis- It is a condition of the joints that results in a breakdown of joint cartilage.
- Charcot joint – Joint deterioration brought on by diabetic nerve injury (neuropathy), which causes numbness and a lack of sensation in the extremities.
- Diabetic hand syndrome- Skin on the hands becoming thicker, making it challenging to move the fingers or move the palms together
- Frozen shoulder- Shoulder with pain sometimes swelling and reduced range of motion
- Dupuytren’s contracture – The tissues under the skin of the fingers and palm have thickened and scarred, causing the deformity of the hand.
- Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis- Due to the tightening of the ligaments and tendons connected to the spine, the back or neck may experience pain and stiffness.
How to manage bone health
A helpful tip for promoting healthy bones among individuals with diabetes is to focus on a balanced diet that includes calcium-rich foods and regular physical activity.
Here are some specific tips:
Include Calcium-Rich Foods
Incorporate calcium-rich foods into your daily diet. Good sources of calcium includes dairy products like milk, yoghurt, and cheese. If you are lactose intolerant or prefer non-dairy options, you can choose fortified plant-based milk alternatives like soy milk or almond milk. Other calcium-rich foods include leafy green vegetables like spinach, kale, and broccoli, as well as tofu, almonds, and sesame seeds.
Vitamin D Sources
For calcium absorption and strong bones, vitamin D is vital. While sunlight is a natural source of Vitamin D, it may be challenging to get enough exposure. Include Vitamin D-rich foods in your diet, such as fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines. Additionally, egg yolks, fortified cereals, and fortified dairy or plant-based milk alternatives can contribute to your Vitamin D intake.
Regular Physical Activity
Engage in weight-bearing exercises regularly to strengthen your bones. Weight-bearing exercises include activities like walking, jogging, dancing, and climbing stairs. These activities support increasing bone density and promoting bone growth. Consult with your healthcare professional before starting any new exercise routine to ensure it aligns with your health condition.
Manage Blood Sugar Levels
Keep your blood sugar levels under control as high blood sugar can affect bone health. Follow a balanced diet, monitor your carbohydrate intake, and take prescribed medications as directed by your healthcare professional. Regular blood sugar monitoring and regular check-ups are essential for diabetes management.
Consult with Healthcare Professionals
It’s important to consult with healthcare professionals, such as doctors and registered dietitians, who can provide personalized advice based on your specific health needs. They can help you create a tailored plan that addresses your diabetes management and bone health concerns.
To sum up
Remember, these tips are general recommendations for bone and joint problems associated with diabetes. It’s crucial to seek personalized advice from healthcare professionals who can consider your unique health situation and provide tailored recommendations for promoting healthy bones while managing diabetes.
