High blood pressure is a well-known risk factor for heart disease and stroke, but recent research has uncovered another potential risk: weaker bones.
Scientists have been investigating the connection between high blood pressure (also called hypertension) and bone health, and the results are eye-opening.
People with high blood pressure may be more likely to experience a loss in bone density, increasing their risk of fractures and osteoporosis.
In this review, we’ll explain what researchers have discovered about this surprising link and how high blood pressure can affect bone strength.
Bone density refers to how strong and solid our bones are. It’s important because bones that are denser are less likely to break. As we age, our bone density naturally decreases, but certain conditions, such as high blood pressure, can speed up this process.
Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become fragile and are more likely to break, and it’s often associated with older age. However, scientists have found that hypertension could play a role in weakening bones too.
Researchers believe that the relationship between high blood pressure and bone density loss has to do with how hypertension affects blood vessels. High blood pressure puts extra strain on blood vessels, causing them to become less flexible and more likely to be damaged over time.
Since bones rely on healthy blood flow to stay strong, damaged blood vessels can lead to poorer bone health.
A study published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research found that people with high blood pressure had a higher risk of low bone density and osteoporosis, especially in the hips and lower spine.
One reason for this link is the inflammation caused by high blood pressure. When blood pressure is high, it creates tiny injuries in blood vessels, leading to ongoing inflammation. This inflammation not only affects the heart and blood vessels but can also reach the bones.
Inflammation releases certain chemicals in the body that can disrupt bone-building cells, called osteoblasts, and bone-breaking cells, called osteoclasts. This imbalance can lead to more bone being broken down than being rebuilt, resulting in weaker bones.
Another study conducted by researchers at the University of California found that high blood pressure can increase the excretion of calcium through urine. Calcium is essential for building and maintaining strong bones.
When blood pressure is high, the kidneys may filter out too much calcium, reducing the amount available to support bone health.
Over time, this loss of calcium can lead to a decrease in bone density, making bones more fragile and prone to fractures. This study emphasized the need to monitor both blood pressure and calcium levels to protect bone health.
Some blood pressure medications might also have an impact on bone density. For example, diuretics, commonly known as “water pills,” help lower blood pressure by flushing out extra salt and water from the body. However, they can also cause the body to lose calcium.
A study published in Osteoporosis International found that people who took certain types of diuretics for a long period of time had lower bone density compared to those who took other blood pressure medications.
However, not all blood pressure medications have this effect. Calcium-channel blockers, which are used to relax blood vessels, do not seem to affect bone density as much.
Interestingly, high blood pressure and bone loss also share similar risk factors. For instance, a diet high in salt is known to raise blood pressure, but it can also reduce calcium absorption in the body.
Furthermore, people who lead sedentary lifestyles or do not get enough exercise are at greater risk of both high blood pressure and osteoporosis. This suggests that adopting a healthier lifestyle could help protect against both conditions at the same time.
The good news is that there are ways to reduce the risk of both high blood pressure and bone density loss. Regular exercise, such as walking, weight training, or yoga, can help maintain strong bones and lower blood pressure.
A 2019 study published in The American Journal of Medicine showed that even moderate exercise a few times a week helped to improve both blood pressure and bone density in older adults.
Additionally, a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is essential for bone health, while reducing salt intake can help keep blood pressure in check.
In conclusion, research has shown that high blood pressure can contribute to a loss in bone density and an increased risk of osteoporosis. This happens through inflammation, calcium loss, and the effects of certain medications.
However, by understanding the connection and adopting a healthy lifestyle, it is possible to protect both your heart and your bones. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and proper blood pressure management can go a long way in keeping both blood pressure and bone health in good shape.
Knowing this link can help people take better care of their bodies and make choices that promote overall well-being.
If you care about blood pressure, please read studies that black licorice could cause dangerous high blood pressure, and this common plant nutrient could help reduce high blood pressure.
For more information about blood pressure, please see recent studies about how coffee influence your risk of high blood pressure, and results showing this olive oil could reduce blood pressure in healthy people.
Copyright © 2024 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
