Protecting Your Bones
Many things weaken bones. Some are outside your control. If you have a family member who has bone problems, you could also be at risk. Some medical conditions can also make you prone to bone disease.
There are some things you can control:
- Get enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet at every age.
- Be physically active.
- Reduce hazards in your home that could increase your risk of falling and breaking bones.
- Talk with your doctor about medicines you are taking that could weaken bones, like medicine for thyroid problems or arthritis. Also talk about ways to take medicines that are safe for bones. Discuss ways to protect bones while treating other problems.
- Maintain a healthy weight. Being underweight raises the risk of fracture and bone loss.
- Don't smoke. Smoking can reduce bone mass and increase your risks for a broken bone.
- Limit alcohol use. Heavy alcohol use reduces bone mass and increases your risk for broken bones.
Source: NIH Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center