Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis arises from vata aggravation (air imbalance) and dhatu kshaya (tissue depletion) of asthi dhatu (bone tissue).

Western Understanding

A bone disease that develops when bone mineral density and bone mass decreases, or when the quality or structure of bone changes.

Ayurvedic Understanding

Osteoporosis (Asthi Kshaya) in Ayurveda is an asthi dhatu (bone tissue) disorder caused by vata aggravation and dhatu kshaya (tissue depletion). It develops when vata (air) creates excessive dryness and movement in bones, leading to loss of bone density and strength. The condition is characterized by weak, brittle bones prone to fractures. Treatment focuses on nourishing asthi dhatu with calcium-rich foods and herbs, pacifying vata through warm oil massages, using bone-strengthening herbs like ashwagandha, shatavari, and guduchi, and maintaining adequate nutrition. Weight-bearing exercise, adequate sunlight for vitamin D, and avoiding excessive vata-aggravating foods are essential.

Foods to Favor

15
Almond milk
Almond milk
Ashwagandha milk
Ashwagandha milk
Bone broth from chicken or fish
Bone broth from chicken or fish
Bone broth soup
Bone broth soup
Calcium
Calcium
Cooked vegetables
Cooked vegetables
Eggs
Eggs
Figs and dates
Figs and dates
Guggulu tea
Guggulu tea
Leafy greens with ghee
Leafy greens with ghee
Salmon with bones
Salmon with bones
Sardines with bones
Sardines with bones
Sesame seeds with jaggery
Sesame seeds with jaggery
Small fish
Small fish
Whole grain meals
Whole grain meals

Foods to Reduce

10
Alcohol
Alcohol
Caffeine and coffee
Caffeine and coffee
Carbonated sodas
Carbonated sodas
Excessive animal protein
Excessive animal protein
Excessive salt
Excessive salt
High
High
Nightshade vegetables
Nightshade vegetables
Oxalate
Oxalate
Processed foods
Processed foods
Refined sugar
Refined sugar