Everything You Should Know About Osteoporosis
Although osteoporosis affects millions of people each year, it is often disregarded as a disease to be concerned with in the latter part of life. However, good bone health begins in childhood. Because we can reach peak bone mass as adults as early as 18, but also between 25 and 30, it is important to learn about osteoporosis early and take preventive measures.
In honor of Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month, our team wants to share everything you should know about osteoporosis.
- After reaching peak bone mass, we begin to gradually lose more bone than we form. When we aren’t forming enough bone or are losing too much bone, osteoporosis occurs.
- Osteoporosis is often referred to as the “silent disease”, because it does not show obvious symptoms and many people do not realize they have it until they experience a fracture. Having a bone density test is an incredibly important way to identify the disease or find out your risk level.
- People who low bone mass after they reach their peak bone mass age are usually at higher risk.
- The condition can also develop as a result of a number of controllable and uncontrollable risk factors ranging from sex, age, family medical history, lifestyle choices that may include diet, weight, alcohol intake, smoking, etc.
- According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, approximately 10 million Americans have osteoporosis and another 44 million have low bone density, placing them at increased risk.
- This disease occurs in women AND men.
- One in two women older than 50 will break a bone during the life because of osteoporosis.
- One in four men older than 50 will experience a fracture due to osteoporosis.
- Bone loss tends to speed up for both men and women around midlife.
- Fractures are a serious concern for those living with the disease.
- Diet plays a significant role in bone health. Eating foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, as well as magnesium, vitamin K, and zinc, helps assist in the production and maintenance of bone.
- Bones are living, growing tissue. Exercising regularly helps keep those tissues healthy and strong. Add strengthening and weight-bearing exercises to your routine to build and maintain bone density, while increasing mobility, balance, flexibility and strength to prevent injuries.
- Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption may lower your risk. Learn how smoking puts you at risk for osteoporosis here.
If you are concerned about your bone health and risk of osteoporosis, do not hesitate to contact our team at 1-800-REBOUND. Learn more about osteoporosis, including tips on prevention, by checking out our posts below.
Rebound Osteoporosis Resources:
Osteoporosis Detection, Prevention and Myths
Blueprint for Better Joint Mobility: How Activity Keeps Your Bones Healthy as You Age
Five Things Men Should Know About Bone Health