Break the Habit: Smoking Affects Bone Health
A fresh start can happen anytime, but one of the most important changes you can make this year starts with a breath of fresh air. We all know that smoking is bad for our health, but did you know that smoking affects not only our lungs, but also our bones and joints?
SMOKING WEAKENS BONES
Studies have found that smoking weakens bones in multiple ways. Primarily, nicotine slows down the production of important bone-forming cells known as osteoblasts, and it reduces blood supply to the bones and other body tissues. Smoking also decreases the body’s absorption of calcium, which is vital for healthy bones. Tobacco use affects the balance of hormones, including estrogen, which is needed to build and maintain a strong skeleton in both women and men.
SMOKING SLOWS HEALING
Weakened bones are more susceptible to fractures and sprains, and smokers typically have longer recovery periods for these injuries. Smokers often have a higher rate of complications after surgery, especially those related to wound healing from incision sites.
SMOKING CAN CAUSE DIABETES
According to research, cigarette smoking has been linked to an increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Smoking can reduce insulin sensitivity, increase the levels of inflammation in the body, and result in oxidative stress - all of which are factors that are involved in the onset of diabetes.
Diabetes has several negative effects on bone health. People with diabetes are at an increased risk of developing bone and joint disorders due to factors such as diabetic neuropathy, arterial disease, and obesity. Research has shown that people with diabetes have a higher risk of osteoporosis, a condition where bones become brittle and fragile, leading to an increased risk of fractures. Chronic high blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can also alter the composition and structure of bone tissue, leading to increased fragility and a higher risk of fractures.
IMPROVING BONE HEALTH THROUGH DIET
Many smokers are calcium deficient due to the negative effect on our bone’s ability to absorb calcium. A change in diet is often easier to tackle than going smoke-free, and a calcium rich diet may help offset the damaging effect for smokers.
The recommended daily calcium intake for men and women up to age 50 is 1,000 mg, and 1,200 mg for women over 50 and men over 70. To meet this daily recommendation consider adding more leafy green vegetables, low-fat dairy products, and foods or beverages fortified with calcium.
Get enough vitamin D, which is also necessary for calcium absorption. While sunlight exposure helps the body produce vitamin D, it can also be found in egg yolks, saltwater fish, and liver. Likewise, limit alcohol consumption to avoid interfering with the absorption of calcium and vitamin D.
For those not meeting the daily requirement, they can consider taking calcium supplements as advised by the National Academy of Medicine.
SMOKE-FREE SUPPORT
Get support to quit. There are numerous resources available to support individuals in their journey to quit smoking. By utilizing the multitude of smoking cessation resources, individuals can increase their chances of successfully quitting.
WAYS TO QUIT
Nicotine Replacement Therapy
Nicotine patches or gum can help reduce withdrawal symptoms.
Healthcare Professionals
Doctors and pharmacists can offer personalized advice and assistance.
Prescription Medications
Certain medications are available to reduce cravings and manage nicotine dependence.
Behavioral Support Programs
Counseling and support groups offer guidance, encouragement and strategies for quitting.
Online Platforms and Mobile Apps
Convenient and accessible resources that provide additional support
It's important for our patients to be aware of the various negative effects of smoking and its connection to their bones. Quitting can significantly improve their overall health and reduce the risk of complications related to orthopedic procedures.