First, osteoporosis means porous bone and is a disease in which bones become more fragile. If left untreated, it can progress silently until the bone is broken. Your bones are living, growing tissues constantly being formed and broken down. By age 30, your bones are at your lifetime best.

Osteoporosis is a major health threat for 28 million Americans, 80% of whom are women.

The good news is that this can be preventable, detectable, and treatable. The future of your bones depends on your actions today. Some important steps include the following:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium and Vitamin D. Take supplements if necessary. Taking these minerals cannot 100% prevent or cure osteoporosis, but if you do not get enough, bone loss will occur.
• Do weight-bearing and resistance exercises. Bones, like muscle, get stronger with exercise. Regular exercise improves mobility and balance, which in turn reduces the risk of falls and fractures.
• Reduce smoking and alcohol intake. These habits make it difficult for your body to make use of calcium.
• Be informed and talk with your doctor. Discuss your risks for developing osteoporosis and ask if you need a Bone Mass Density test.
• Take medication, if needed.

You May Be At Risk if You Have Any of These Factors:

• Advanced age
• Post menopause
• Caucasian or Asian descent
• Family history of hip fractures or stooped posture
• Previous broken bone
• Too little calcium
• Eating disorders
• Estrogen deficiency or early menopause
• Thin, small-boned frame
• Not enough weight-bearing exercise
• Too much smoking or high alcohol intake
• Long term therapy with certain medications

The University of Arizona of Agriculture & Life Sciences created a bone building Activities Chart to help prevent Osteoporosis. Please view: http://www.bonebuilders.org/bbchart.htm

For even more information, check out the Foundation for Osteoporosis Research and Education (FORE). Call 888.266.3015 or visit http://www.fore.org/.

Source:  Wellness News You Can Use, National Wellness Institute (December 2006)