Osteoporosis occurs when bones have a lower bone density which causes brittle, weak, and easily broken bones. Men and women with small body frames tend to have less body mass. Having a parent or sibling with osteoporosis puts you at a higher risk. Bones weaken as we age, but women are more likely than men to develop it due to hormonal changes during menopause. Caucasian and Asian descent are at a greater risk than other ethnic groups. So what can you do about it?
- Take calcium supplements. Calcium with Vitamin D liquid is the best over pills. Pills tend to have more powder fillers. You can find the liquid in health food stores, on Amazon, and in Fred Myers.
- Exercise to make your muscles stronger to support those bones.
- Eat & drink calcium products such as yogurt, dairy, soy products, and dark, green and leafy vegetables.
- Reduce tripping hazards in your home to prevent breaks.
- Some doctors prescribe medications for improving bone strength.
Some people don’t realize they have osteoporosis until they break a bone. Ask your doctor if you need a bone density test.
