Skip to content Skip to navigation menu Loading
Do you want to delete selected products from wishlist?
Yes
No

What is Osteoporosis?



Osteoporosis -- by Roman Lester Rosales, Guardian Senior Pharmacist

What is osteoporosis and what are its symptoms?
Osteoporosis is a bone disease in which bone mass and strength is reduced, causing brittle and fragile bones. It is usually caused by an imbalance between the formation of new bones and the breakdown of old bones.

Often termed the 'silent disease', there may not be any obvious symptoms until it reaches a more advanced stage where it causes pain in the bones or muscles, especially in the lower back area. Loss of height and stooped posture due to spinal compression fractures may also be experienced. The thinning and weakening of bones may also increase the risk of fractures, especially in the hips, spine, or wrists.

Who is at risk and how is it diagnosed?
Women are at a higher risk of osteoporosis than men. Other risk factors include advanced age, lowered oestrogen and testosterone levels, certain medications, alcohol and cigarette consumption, low calcium intake, and lack of exercise.

A painless, non-invasive screening for osteoporosis is done by measuring bone strength through the bone mineral density test using the DEXA scan. The test may also be able to assess the risk of fractures, and hence, is used to recommend suitable treatment and preventive measures.

What are the treatment options and preventive measures?
Treatment options include medications to either slow down the rate of bone resorption or stimulate new bone formation, depending on the cause found upon diagnosis. These medicines, available only by prescription from a doctor, help to prevent bone loss and lower the risk of bone fractures.

As osteoporosis is largely preventable, it is important to begin by increasing your intake of calcium and vitamin D early. But, before taking any calcium supplements, do consult your healthcare professionals for advice, especially if you are on other long term medications.

Reducing your caffeine intake, consuming alcohol in moderation, and avoiding smoking are some of the lifestyle modifications that can help to reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis. Following a regular exercise regime that includes weight-bearing exercises (e.g. jogging, dancing, stair-climbing) would also help to build stronger bones and maintain bone density.


GUARDIAN SINGAPORE │ THE NO. 1 HEALTH AND BEAUTY RETAILER IN SINGAPORE ONLINE

With more than 116 stores island-wide, it retails a comprehensive range of health & beauty products. Guardian has evolved from its pharmacy roots into a holistic one-stop solution for customers' health and beauty needs. It continues to expand its product and service range to meet the redefinition of beauty by today's customers - where health meets beauty.

Now more than ever, it's imperative for us to take care of ourselves, our health! Every aspect of our lives is affected by it, from our mood to our appearances to our lifespan. We often forget that we must first take care of ourselves from the inside out. Remember, you are what you consume! Eating nutritious food doesn't stop when you grow up. Just as children consume milk formulas such as Pediasure to develop, teens and adults should consume supplements to maintain good health. We offer a range of Vitamin D, Vitamin B, Omega 3, Glucosamine and Prebiotic supplements from reputable brands that will help to further boost your health and physical well-being.

Enhance your beauty from the inside, then empower your body on the outside. Become more comfortable in your own skin with Bio Oils, formulated by many dermatologists to be the most efficient product for you. Additionally, we offer high-quality toothpaste products from brands like Sensodyne and Colgate that encourage others to smile when they see your bright smile!

We can help you take a step closer to showing the world your true, unique self by helping you choose the right health and beauty products.

Privacy Policy Terms & Conditions
© 2024 Guardian Health & Beauty. All rights reserved.