Osteopenia & Osteoporosis in Anorexia: Treatment Options & Recovery

Eating disorders, especially anorexia nervosa, cause bone loss, which contributes to osteoporosis and osteopenia. Caused by calcium deficiency, malnutrition and low body weight, the symptoms are not present until it becomes severe. Severe osteoporosis and osteopenia treatment is usually included as part of a eating disorder program, improving bone strength and density.

Weight

• According to Bulimia.com, increasing a person's fat distribution to a normal range helps restore bone mass. Teenagers should aim for a body fat content of 17 percent, whereas adult women should aim for 22 to 25 percent.

Diet

• Aetna recommends eating a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D. Calcium builds healthy bones and teeth; vitamin D increases calcium absorption and improves bone health.

Exercise

• Bone strength also increases through exercise. Good exercises for anorectics include weight lifting, walking, stair climbing and dancing.

Lifestyle

• Anorectics should also avoid smoking, which weakens the bones. They should also abstain from alcohol.

Treatment

• Osteoporosis medications, such as glucocoticoid, helps decrease bone loss. Estrogen supplements may also help.