On being diagnosed with a condition such as osteoporosis, it is essential to ensure that one’s body gets the nutrients it needs to make the bones strong. Some foods can be beneficial for bone health, whereas others can cause bone loss. Here are some of the foods that aggravate osteoporosis. These should be limited or avoided as much as possible.

1. Foods that contain a lot of salt
Consuming too much salt can be harmful to the bones. Hence, one should avoid salty foods that aggravate osteoporosis. Excess salt causes the body to release calcium. Therefore, one should avoid consuming more than 20% of their daily recommended value for sodium. Limiting the intake of salt to 2300mg per day could also be beneficial. One can achieve this by avoiding or restricting their consumption of packaged and junk foods. Checking the salt content of packaged foods could also make one aware of the amount of salt consumed.

2. Alcohol
Alcohol and alcoholic beverages are listed among the foods that aggravate osteoporosis as excessive consumption can result in bone loss. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, to ensure good bone health, one should limit alcohol to about two drinks per day.

3. Beans and legumes
Although considered very healthy, these are some of the foods that aggravate osteoporosis, especially in women. Beans and legumes contain a compound known as phytates that affect the body’s ability to absorb calcium. Soaking beans in water for about two to three hours before cooking and then draining the water could help reduce their phytate content. One would need to add fresh water when cooking the beans.

4. Wheat bran
This too contains a high amount of phytate that interferes with calcium absorption. Foods or supplements that contain vitamin A, such as wheat bran, are bad for osteoporosis. Although it might not be possible to consume too much vitamin A through diet alone, those who take fish liver oil supplements and multivitamins are at an increased risk of providing their bodies with an excess of this vitamin. Too much vitamin A can have an adverse impact on bone health.

5. Caffeine
Coffee, energy drinks, and tea all contain caffeine in varying amounts. Consuming too much caffeine can affect the calcium absorbed by the food, leading to bone loss. Therefore, one should consume beverages in moderation and check their caffeine levels. Opting for water is a healthy choice.

One should plan their meals and keep in mind these foods that aggravate osteoporosis to avoid these trigger items.