Osteoporosis is a bone disease that effects 28 million Americans, most of them women.  In fact, almost 70% of those who have the disease are women.  It is an ailment that causes bones in the body to become brittle or weak causing bones to break or fracture. The fractures most commonly occur in the wrist, hip, and spine.

Women in the United States have a high risk of developing Osteoporosis.  Unfortunately, it is a disease that often goes undetected for years until a break occurs.  Normal bone contains calcuim, protein, and  collagen.  These three properties become broken down over time and cause the bone to weaken.

Bone mass (or bone density) is the amount of bone in the skeletal body.  The higher the bone density, the stronger the bones.  Bone mass is developed until the age of thirty and then it typically begins to thin.  Generally, bone density is greatly influenced by genetics. 

What  can you do to prevent Osteoporosis?

Exercise: Although it does not directly affect bone mass, exercise does improve balance, coordination, strength, and flexibility.  A consistent work out routine improves muscle tone cushioning the bones.  If bones are already weak, be careful about over exercising.

Healthy diet and calcium: Be sure to eat foods rich in calcium.  Milk, yogurt, and cheese each have a high content of calcium.

Avoid smoking and alcohol: People who smoke and drink alcohol consume less calcium in their diet.  As stated before, calcium is a bone builder!

Medication: Certain prescriptions can help build stronger bones.  Check with your doctor first before taking any kind of medical supplement.

Osteoporosis is a disease that hospitalizes women and men all over the world.  Do your part and protect yourself whatever your age.  Prevention is the best treatment.