Pattern of nutrition, physical activity level and body mass index (BMI) in women with osteoporosis

Introduction: Several factors, such as nutrition, body mass index and physical activity, are involved in the incidence of osteoporosis. Thus, this study was conducted to determine the pattern of nutrition, physical activity level and body mass index in women with osteoporosis. Materials and Methods: 100 osteoporotic patients participated in this research. The patients were classified based on their body mass index and physical activity level. Daily intake of nutrients was evaluated using Food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and 24 hour recall. Questionnaires and data were analyzed in DFP and SPSS.13 softwares using the sample t-test and Spearman-correlation. Results: According to the results, 50.5% of the patients were in the overweight and obese groups and 89% of them had low activity or were inactive. Average consumption of zinc, magnesium and copper in all age groups and average consumption of calcium in women older than 51 years was significantly less than the recommended dietary allowances (RDA)(P<0.001). However, the average consumption of phosphorus, iron, and vitamin C in all age groups was significantly higher than RDA (P<0.001). Conclusion: The result showed that obesity and low activity are common in osteoporotic patients. The intake of the nutrients with positive effects on the bone density is less than the standards recommended.