Are your bones at risk?
Osteoporosis is a condition where bone density decreases, making bones fragile and easier to break. It’s dangerous because there are no symptoms until a bone fracture occurs. This is usually when an incident (such as a fall) that would not necessarily cause a serious injury, does. With the streets and sidewalks getting icy soon, it’s important for everyone to know the dangers that come with osteoporosis. Talk with your friends and family members to see if they know the risks of osteoporosis and how they can prevent injuries.
Am I at Risk?
You are at a higher risk for osteoporosis if you are:
- Female
- Of white or Asian descent
- Thin or have a small frame
- Have a low calcium intake
- Smoke
- Have suffered from an eating disorder
- Are not active
- Have excessive alcohol consumption
What Can I Do to Prevent Osteoporosis?
You can prevent osteoporosis by:
- Increasing your calcium and vitamin D intake
- Exercising
- Not smoking
- Avoiding excessive alcohol
You can learn more about vitamin D with our blog post from this summer.
What do you do to keep your bones healthy?
Sources:
http://www.medicinenet.com/osteoporosis/article.htm
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/osteoporosis/DS00128
Related articles
- What is Osteoporosis? (brighthub.com)
- Bone health needs more than just calcium (theglobeandmail.com)
- Osteoporosis Treatment Now (generalmedicine.suite101.com)
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