Osteoporosis is a disease of the bones in which the body’s skeletal system deteriorates becoming weak and brittle. In severe cases, osteoporosis can cause bones to break with a minor bump or shaking, or even a violent sneeze. The word osteoporosis actually means “porous bone” and if you could see the bones of a victim of this disease up close, like under a microscope, you would see bones that have holes.

All bones have some spaces in between, but those with osteoporosis have holes and spaces that are much larger than people with healthy bone structure. The density, the tissue structure, and the mass of a person with osteoporosis has been depleted. The most common osteoporosis symptoms include a bent posture, back pain and bones that are easily broken. There are some foods that you must avoid if you want to effectively reduce your chances of getting osteoporosis or if you already have it, minimizing its symptoms:

1. High-salt foods
Any foods that are high in sodium have a deleterious long-term effect on the bones. In particular, meats such as ham which is cured, canned foods, and foods that require a great deal of seasoning are to be avoided. You could also use salt substitutes if you think your food tastes bland.

2. Alcohol
The effects of fermented beverages on bone health has been studied for years, because of theories that it may bring about osteoporosis. Doctors say that high levels of cortisol are found in people who suffer from alcoholism. Also, fermented drinks can destroy the cells in the body responsible for bone growth.

3. Caffeine
We all love our morning coffee. We also like tea, soda, and other drinks designed to perk us up. Unfortunately, in recent studies, caffeine has been shown to increase the excretion of calcium from the kidneys. Calcium is integral to bone growth. This mild stimulant is also linked to the decreased effectiveness of Vitamin D, which is needed by the body in order to absorb calcium.

4. Beans and legumes
Beans and legumes are considered to be some of the most healthy foods on the planet. How on earth could these foods be responsible for such a serious disease as osteoporosis? Although these foods have some nutrients that are needed by the body, they also contain phytate, a substance known to hinder the body’s ability to absorb calcium, which is necessary for strong bones.

5. Foods high in vitamin A
Vitamin A is good for the body. It aids the ability to see, strengthens the immune system, and assists other vitamins in providing optimal health. However, excess Vitamin A stored in the body can decrease bone density causing bones to become weaker. Not all Vitamin A reduces bone density. It is thought by experts that preformed Vitamin A is the culprit. This Vitamin A only comes from foods such as eggs, liver, and milk. These are all animal sources of this vitamin. It may be best to reduce your intake of excess Vitamin A foods.