Children can:
- Engage in 30 minutes of physical activity each day
- Eat calcium-rich foods
- Take a vitamin D supplement
- Avoid smoking and vaping
- Reduce the intake of sugary drinks
Osteoporosis, which means “porous bones,” is both preventable and treatable, regardless of age, through engaging in healthy behaviors and safe physical activity. Moreover, eating nutrient-rich foods and participating in exercises promoting better posture, stamina and coordination can contribute to maximum bone health.
A person’s risk of breaking a bone depends on various factors, including age, gender, genetics, other chronic medical conditions and medication(s) used. Below are some facts about osteoporosis in the United States and in the Greater Tampa Bay Area.
There are many medications that impact the bones and that can increase fracture risks, including corticosteroids and some cancer-treating drugs.
1. Partake in weight bearing activities that require a variety of movements, including pickleball, tennis, yoga, dancing or weight training.
2. Eat foods dense in calcium, vitamin D, protein and magnesium.
3. Stop smoking and vaping and reduce alcohol intake.
Bone health starts in childhood. Children build the majority of their bone density between the ages of 9 and 14 and reach peak bone mass in adulthood around age 30. Parents and caregivers can encourage children to begin healthy practices to grow strong bones before their tween years.
Children can:
A bone density test (DXA scan) is a non-invasive X-ray that allows health care professionals to determine the density of the bone. The scan helps doctors and other medical practitioners to diagnose osteoporosis, manage bone loss and prevent fractures.
Additionally, American Bone Health’s Fracture Risk Calculator helps people to understand their risk factors for bone fractures.
Sources: American Bone Health, Amgen, National Institutes of Health, Pinellas County and Symphony Health Solutions