Healthy Bones And The Prevention Of Osteoporosis

The U.S. Surgeon General has stated that by the year 2020, fifty percent of Americans over the age of 50 will have osteoporosis or face high risk for developing this menacing bone disease. While osteoporosis does not often cause death, most osteoporosis fractures result in disability, pain and suffering. The risks for osteoporosis are greatest in women, thin people, Caucasians, Asians, and heavy smokers and drinkers. That’s the bad news. The good news is that osteoporosis can be screened and its onset prevented or delayed by following a few simple steps.

First, you can reduce your risk of developing osteoporosis by eating foods rich in calcium and Vitamin D. If you cannot meet your daily requirements, your doctor can suggest or prescribe the appropriate supplements.

Second, you should maintain a healthy weight and get plenty of exercise. Thirty minutes of exercise a day can help the average adult to maintain healthy bones into his or her 90s. Walking and weight training are recommended for building bone strength and density.

Lastly, get regular bone mineral density tests to determine what your chances are for developing osteoporosis. While these tests can be ordered by your doctor, you can initiate such tests on your own.