Endocrinologist explains how restrictive diets can affect bone health

Severe dietary restriction and chronic stress can be associated with hormonal disturbances that increase women's risk of bone loss, endocrinologist Pavel Baranov told RIA Novosti.

Speaking ahead of World Osteoporosis Day on 20 October, Baranov explained that osteoporosis reduces bone mineral density and increases fracture risk. Oestrogen deficiency can accelerate bone loss following declining ovarian function, as well as in younger women with menstrual disturbances.

Baranov identified professional athletes, women with eating disorders and those following extremely restrictive diets as groups at risk. The Endocrine Society also links functional loss of menstrual periods to insufficient energy intake, intensive exercise and stress. This condition can contribute to bone loss.

According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation, about one in three women and one in five men over 50 will sustain an osteoporotic fracture during their remaining lifetimes. That estimate describes fracture risk rather than the proportion already diagnosed with osteoporosis.

Baranov also listed loss of muscle mass, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, family history and previous fractures as risk factors. Long-term use of systemic glucocorticoids, prescribed for some chronic autoimmune conditions, can also affect bone strength.