How can you prevent brittle bones?

Preventing brittle bones, a condition often linked to osteoporosis, requires a combination of diet, exercise and healthy lifestyle habits.

Calcium is essential for building and maintaining strong bones. Calcium is found in milk, yogurt, cheese, broccoli and kale. Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium from food. Vitamin D is obtained from exposure to sunlight, as well as from eating fatty fish such as salmon and mackerel. Vitamin D supplements may be necessary if you don't get enough sunlight or lack dietary sources. Vitamin plays a role in bone metabolism and helps keep calcium in the bones. It is found in green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale and broccoli.

In addition, exercise such as walking or cycling is also recommended. Furthermore, a healthy lifestyle is necessary. Smoking and alcohol damage bone health. Excessive caffeine consumption can decrease calcium absorption. Moderate your caffeine intake from coffee, tea and soft drinks.

A bone density measurement may be considered for postmenopausal women and men over 70 years of age or younger people with risk factors. Discuss this with your doctor.

In some cases, medications may be needed to prevent or treat bone loss, such as bisphosphonates, denosumab, or hormone therapy. These should always be used under the supervision of a doctor.

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2022-02-22 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024