5 ways to boost bone strength early
Ø Monitor your diet. Get enough calcium
and vitamin D, ideally through the foods you eat. Although dairy products may
be the richest sources of calcium, a growing number of foods, such as orange
juice, are calcium–fortified. Fruits, vegetables, and grains provide other
minerals crucial to bone health, such as magnesium and phosphorus.
Ø Maintain a reasonable
weight. This is particularly
important for women. Menstrual periods often stop in women who are underweight
— due to a poor diet or excessive exercise — and that usually means that
estrogen levels are too low to support bone growth.
Ø Don’t smoke, and
limit alcohol intake. Smoking and too much
alcohol both decrease bone mass.
Ø Make sure your
workouts include weight–bearing exercises. Regular
weight–bearing exercise like walking, dancing, or step aerobics can protect
your bones. Also include strength training as part of your exercise routine.
Ø Talk with your doctor
about your risk factors. Certain medical
conditions (like celiac disease) and some medications (steroids and others) can
increase the chances that you will develop osteoporosis. It’s important to talk
with your doctor to develop a prevention strategy that accounts for these
factors
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