8 Foods to Avoid for Bone Density

8 Foods to avoid for bone density (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by godisable)
8 Foods to avoid for bone density (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by godisable)

There are many foods to avoid for bone density that you can be on the look out for. Osteoporosis is a bone disease that develops when bone mineral density and bone mass decrease, or when the structure and strength of bones change. This can lead to a decrease in bone strength, which can increase the risk of fractures (broken bones).

Several people across the world are affected by osteoporosis. However, elderly women who have passed menopause, particularly those of Asian and white descent, are most vulnerable. Weight-bearing activity, a nutritious diet, and medications can improve existing weak bones or stop bone loss.


Foods to Avoid for Bone Density

1) A diet high in acid

There are many who think eating a lot of protein can make your blood acidic. It is suggested that your body pulls calcium salts from your bones in an attempt to counteract this acidity.

It is possible that this will weaken your bones, in theory. Proponents of the notion advocate modifying your food to affect your bloodstream's pH (acidity level).

Best foods to avoid for bone density (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by Andrea)
Best foods to avoid for bone density (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by Andrea)

2) Foods high in sodium

Consuming excessively salty foods may contribute to osteoporosis, thinning the bones. Common knowledge says salt prompts the body to discharge surplus calcium.

For healthier options, try fresh foods without adding salt, as numerous easily accessible processed foods today contain heavy sodium.

Top foods to avoid for bone density (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by chan)
Top foods to avoid for bone density (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by chan)

3) Bran of wheat

Wheat bran has a high phytate content that may hinder your body's ability to absorb calcium. But unlike beans, the only food that seems to reduce the absorption of calcium from other foods consumed concurrently is 100% wheat bran.

For instance, your body can absorb part of the calcium in the milk, but not all of it, when you combine it with 100% wheat bran cereal.

Worst foods to avoid for bone density (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by pixabay)
Worst foods to avoid for bone density (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by pixabay)

4) Foods that have sugar added

Consuming too much sugar may be bad for your bones. Consuming an exce­ss amount of sugar can lead to lower potassium, magnesium, and calcium le­vels in the body.

8 Foods to avoid for bone density (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by Pixabay)
8 Foods to avoid for bone density (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by Pixabay)

This occurs as these­ minerals are excre­ted in higher amounts through the urine­. Additionally, high sugar intake can inhibit bone production and reduce­ vitamin D levels.

With less vitamin D, the­ body absorbs less calcium. Overall, high sugar consumption diminishes ke­y minerals neede­d for health.


5) Coffee

Reducing your intake of caffeinated pick-me-ups might be a smart idea. If you drink four cups or more of coffee a day, you might want to think twice about your coffee consumption, similar to soft drinks.

Foods to avoid for bone density (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by vlada)
Foods to avoid for bone density (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by vlada)

Coffee contains caffeine, which may interfere with the absorption of calcium. Drink decaf teas and coffees, and limit your intake of sweets, especially chocolate and other high-caffeine meals, to prevent osteoporosis.


6) Crimson meat

There is no denying the importance of protein for both general health and strength. Animal meat is the most popular source of protein in the United States.

Foods to avoid for bone density (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by lukas)
Foods to avoid for bone density (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by lukas)

However, meat, especially bee­f protein, packs in a lot of sulphur-based amino acids. This makes your body push calcium from the­ bone to the blood. Your bones could ge­t more frail as a result.


7) Colas and other phosphorus-containing beverages

Phosphorus is the component in cola that may be responsible for decreased bone mineral density. A prevalent element in dark colas, phosphoric acid can lead to an imbalance between calcium and phosphorus.

8 Foods to avoid for bone density (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by pixabay)
8 Foods to avoid for bone density (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by pixabay)

This results in osteoporosis fractures and decreased bone density, and it is particularly true if you don't get enough calcium.


8) Hydrogenated oil

Turning liquid vege­table oil to solid via hydrogenation for industrial baking strips the oil of its natural vitamin K. Ye­t, our bones need vitamin K to stay strong. Luckily, oils like­ canola and olive oil are rich in vitamin K, second only to gre­en leafy vege­tables.

Foods to avoid for bone density (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by rdne)
Foods to avoid for bone density (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by rdne)

Healthy bones can be maintained by diet, regular exercise, and other osteoporosis preventive techniques including quitting smoking and alcohol. Many other minerals also contribute to the development of strong bones, while calcium and vitamin D are the two most frequently associated with improved bone health.

App download animated image Get the free App now