There are many different factors that can contribute to weak bones, such as being a female, old age, smoking, caffeine intake, low calcium, and certain medications. But you may want to add anxiety to that list.
The latest research findings suggest that anxiety can contribute to weak bones by depleting vitamin D levels. Previous studies found that anxiety, fatigue, and loneliness could contribute to lower bone density.
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This is the first time a study revealed a link between women with anxiety and weak bones.
The Italian researchers uncovered that anxious women have a three percent higher risk of hip fractures and four percent higher risk of other fractures. Highly anxious women were found to have a higher risk of low bone density.
Psychologist Dr. Sagar Mandada explained, “Excess worry is perceived as distress by our body. Increased long-term stress causes unbalanced release of cortisol and has been associated with many changes in the body, especially bone and joint related problems. Stress impacts vitamin D levels as well.”
The researchers of the study suggest that anxious women are more likely to partake in unhealthy habits, which could contribute to weaker bones. Furthermore, stress hormones are higher among those with anxiety, which is also detrimental to bone health.
Not only should anxious people seek help for their anxiety to protect their bones, but they should also adhere to healthy lifestyle habits to protect their bones even further.
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Mohan Garikiparithi got his degree in medicine from Osmania University (University of Health Sciences). He practiced clinical medicine for over a decade before he shifted his focus to the field of health communications. During his active practice he served as the head of the Dept. of Microbiology in a diagnostic centre in India. On a three-year communications program in Germany, Mohan developed a keen interest in German Medicine (Homoeopathy), and other alternative systems of medicine. He now advocates treating different medical conditions without the use of traditional drugs. An ardent squash player, Mohan believes in the importance of fitness and wellness.
