Osteoporosis is a bone disease that affects 39% of women aged 65 and over. Characterized by an acceleration of bone remodeling (this natural phenomenon which makes it possible to repair and renew the skeleton), this pathology leads to a decrease in bone density – the bones are therefore less solid.
Osteoporosis is, according to Inserm, responsible for approximately 377,000 fractures each year – especially at the level of the hip (the famous “neck of the femur”), vertebrae, wrist, pelvis and ribs. This pathology is particularly linked to menopause since the estrogen deficiency that characterizes this “cap” in a woman’s life accentuates the loss of bone density.
Oxytocin, the hormone… hugs!
Brazilian researchers may have discovered a new way to preserve bone density and skeletal strength in women going through peri-menopause: oxytocin.
The scientists (who published their work in the specialized journal Scientific Reports) worked with a group of rats aged 18 months – the equivalent of peri-menopause in human women. Part of the rats were treated with oxytocin – a hormone naturally produced in humans under the control of the hypothalamus. Verdict? After 1 month, the researchers found that the rats treated with oxytocin had better bone density than the rats in the control group.
Good news : it is possible to naturally “boost” your oxytocin level without resorting to medication. Because this “love hormone” is boosted by… hugs! It would be enough to hug a loved one for a few seconds each day to benefit from a peak of oxytocin, good for morale as well as for health. A great habit to get into.
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