Diabetes and Bone Health: Understanding Your Risk of Falls, Fractures & Osteoporosis
When you think about the health complications associated with diabetes, you may immediately think about blood sugar, heart health, or nerve damage. But diabetes can also affect another important part of your overall health: your bones.
Osteoporosis is often called a “silent disease” because bone loss can occur without noticeable symptoms. As bones become thinner and weaker, they can become more vulnerable to fractures. For people living with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, paying attention to bone health is especially important.
How Can Diabetes Affect Bone Health?
Diabetes and bone health are connected in several ways. People with Type 1 diabetes may experience lower bone density, while Type 2 diabetes has also been associated with changes in bone quality.
There is another important concern: falls.
Diabetes can contribute to complications such as neuropathy and vision problems. These issues may affect balance, sensation, or a person’s ability to safely navigate their surroundings, potentially increasing the risk of falling.
A fall can be particularly concerning when bones have become weakened by osteoporosis.
The spine, wrists, and hips are among the bones commonly affected by fractures.
Six Ways to Support Your Bone Health
While you cannot control every risk factor for osteoporosis, there are lifestyle steps you can take to support healthier bones and reduce some of the factors that may contribute to falls and fractures.
1. Know Your Family History
Your family history can provide important information about your potential risk for osteoporosis. If osteoporosis or significant bone loss runs in your family, talk with your healthcare provider about your individual risk and whether additional monitoring may be appropriate.
2. Pay Attention to Calcium and Vitamin D
Calcium is an important nutrient for maintaining bone health, and vitamin D helps with calcium absorption.
Rather than overlooking these nutrients, make them part of your overall approach to healthy eating. If you are unsure whether you are getting enough calcium or vitamin D, talk with your healthcare provider about what is appropriate for you.
3. Make Movement Part of Your Routine
Regular physical activity can benefit your overall health while also supporting strength and mobility.
Walking and strength-training activities are particularly valuable options to incorporate into an active lifestyle. Building and maintaining muscle is also an important part of supporting your ability to move confidently and safely.
If you are currently inactive, start at a level that is appropriate for you and talk with your healthcare provider about any limitations you may have.
4. Keep Blood Glucose Levels Well Managed
Managing blood glucose is an important part of living well with diabetes.
Work with your healthcare provider to understand your individual blood glucose goals and the steps you can take to keep your levels within the recommended range.
Healthy eating, regular physical activity, and other lifestyle habits can all play an important role in managing your overall health.
5. Review Your Medications With Your Doctor
Certain medications, including a class of oral diabetes medications known as thiazolidinediones (TZDs), have been linked to bone loss and an increased risk of fractures.
This does not mean you should stop taking a medication on your own. Instead, talk with your healthcare provider about the medications you take and whether they are appropriate for your individual health needs.
6. Ask Whether a Bone Density Test Is Appropriate
A bone density test can provide information about your bone health and may help identify bone loss.
Talk with your healthcare provider about your personal risk factors and whether bone density testing is appropriate for you.
Healthy Weight Management Is About More Than the Number on the Scale
Supporting your long-term health involves more than simply watching your weight.
Maintaining muscle and lean tissue, staying active, making nutritious food choices, and developing sustainable habits can all be important components of a healthier lifestyle.
At The Ideal You Weight Loss Center, our science-based weight loss protocol is designed to help clients lose excess fat while maintaining lean tissue and muscle. Our Certified Weight Loss Coaches provide weekly coaching and accountability to help clients make sustainable lifestyle changes and build habits that can last.
If you are ready to take a healthier approach to weight management, learn more about The Ideal You Weight Loss Center at IdealYou.com or call 716-631-THIN (8446). Schedule a FREE informational Open House!
This article is intended for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have diabetes, osteoporosis, or concerns about your risk of falls or fractures, speak with your healthcare provider about your individual health needs.