May is Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month
Osteoporosis, or porous bone, is a disease characterized by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue, leading to bone fragility and an increased susceptibility to fractures. In simpler terms, osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become weak and can break from a minor fall or, in serious cases, from a simple action such as a sneeze. Osteoporosis is often thought to be a “women’s” disease, but it is also a very common problem for men.
Preventing osteoporosis starts in childhood and continues throughout the lifecycle:
- Get the minimum recommended amount of calcium everyday. Adults ages 19 -50 should aim for at least 1000mg/day.
- Dairy foods provided the best source of calcium. An 8 ounce glass of milk provides about 3000 mg of calcium.Eat three servings of low-fat or non-fat dairy daily. Include things like skim or low-fat milk, low-fat yogurt, cottage cheese and sliced cheese.
- Get daily physical activity everyday. Regular weight bearing activities such as walking, strength training or dancing will help build bone strength.
- Get regular check-ups and have bone density checked.
