What do we need to know about our bone health during this pandemic – Times of India

As the on-going COVID-19 pandemic continues we are facing a huge healthcare crisis. Globally the pandemic has accelerated or rather decelerated the entire human population into the confines. Work from home, social shielding and discreet outdoor ventures has not only disrupted our emotional well-being but has also drastically affected our physical health. As people are confined to their homes with reduced physical activity there is rapid bone resorption (loss) as muscles and bones are not getting adequate stimulation. Also lack of exposure to sun during the pandemic has critically affected vitamin D levels in our body. People are frequently feeling tired with lack of energy and strength. Everyone needs to be cautious about the health of their bones as much as their other needs. Bones support us and allow us to be mobile. Bone health is always a priority and we always tend to overlook it. Bone density problem is a silent manifestation and could lead to a major medical issue over a period of time. While osteoporosis onsets with age among men & women, women face the brunt a little earlier, like from their 30s. Well-versed with the situation and to avoid unnecessary bones issues, let us now take a look at some measures that can take care of your bones during the pandemic.Eat a well-balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin DGood sources of calcium include low-fat dairy products, green leafy veggies and dry fruits. Good sources of vitamin D include fortified cereals, egg yolks, saltwater fish, liver and milk. Calcium and vitamin D work together to protect your bones - calcium helps to build and maintain bones; while vitamin D helps your body to effectively absorb calcium.

Get exposure to sunlight to make enough vitamin DRegular sun exposure is the most natural way to get enough vitamin D. The sun's ultraviolet B (UVB) rays hit cholesterol in the skin cells, providing the energy for vitamin D synthesis. Vitamin D has a significant role in calcium homeostasis and metabolism.

As per pan-India study the best time to get exposed to the sun is between 11 am and 1 pm since the wavelength of ultraviolet B (UVB) rays is 290-320nm during this period which is essential for skin to make vitamin D.

Get plenty of physical activityLike muscles, bones become stronger with exercise. The best exercises for healthy bones are strength-building and weight-bearing exercise like walking, climbing stairs, lifting weights and dancing. Try to get 30 minutes of exercise each day.

Strength-building and weight-bearing exercise provides stimulation to bone cells and helps to increased bone mineral density and bone size thus reduced the risk of osteoporosis.

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What do we need to know about our bone health during this pandemic - Times of India