Most people are aware of the foods to eat for healthy bones. However, the foods to avoid with osteoporosis   are often not discussed. A few foods and beverages can hamper one’s bone health. Foods with high sugar or salt content can inhibit the body’s calcium-absorbing abilities and reduce bone mineral density. So, it is best to keep them off the plate. In addition, talk to your doctor about treatment options, including medications like Evenity and Prolia to reduce osteoporosis symptoms. Here is a list of foods to avoid with osteoporosis.

1. Sodas
The phosphoric acid content in sodas is known to deteriorate bone density. It is true that the body needs phosphorus for proper cell function and structure. However, when one consumes sodas in higher quantities, it can impact health and metabolism. An average diet in our country is already high in phosphorus. We already consume a lot more phosphorus than the recommended quantity. So consuming sodas only makes it worse. Hence, it is best to avoid these drinks.

2. Legumes
Legumes, such as lentils, peas, and beans, are good sources of fiber and protein. Thus, they are suitable for health. However, they have a high phytate content, which can interfere with the body’s calcium absorption. Therefore, it is best to avoid legumes or limit their consumption. If one still wants to eat it, it is advisable to soak it in water several hours before cooking.

3. Caffeine
Caffeine is one of the foods to avoid with osteoporosis. Caffeinated drinks reduce calcium absorption, which can lead to bone loss. However, one does not have to eliminate it from their diet completely. Just reducing the quantity consumed is also useful. Both tea and coffee have caffeine in them. One should curtail their daily caffeine consumption to a maximum of three cups a day. As an alternative, one can also switch to herbal teas as they do not have caffeine.

4. Salt
The body needs calcium to maintain bone strength. So healthcare providers recommend increasing daily intake of calcium-rich foods, such as green leafy vegetables and milk. However, calcium will not do any good till one controls their salt intake. Sodium, which is the primary salt component, leads to the excretion of calcium from the body. Thus, it is best advised to cut out salty snacks, such as crackers and chips, from the diet. Further, processed foods with high salt content, such as canned soups and vegetables, should also be avoided. Thus, instead of adding a high degree of salt to the diet, one can replace it with herbs and spices.

5. Spinach
Spinach has oxalates, which binds with calcium and makes the mineral inaccessible to one’s body. Thus, it is advised to either eliminate spinach from the diet or eat it with calcium-rich foods to make up for the loss.