How to Improve My Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a debilitating disease that causes the bones to become fragile, resulting in painful breaks. A major contributor to the increased risk of developing osteoporosis is a lack of usable calcium in the diet during the formative years. Osteoporosis is sometimes referred to as the "old woman's disease" because it afflicts more than half of all women over the age of 55. But in reality, osteoporosis is an adolescent condition with a geriatric outcome. Fortunately, even if you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, there are things you can do to improve your condition.

Instructions

• 1

  Talk to your doctor. Osteoporosis is a complex disease that affects different people in different ways. It is important that you have all the facts about the disease as it affects you, so you can make informed decisions regarding diet, exercise and medications.

• 2

  Start an exercise routine that involves resistance type exercises. Weight-bearing exercises that build muscle strength, such as lifting weights, help strengthen bones and slow bone loss.

• 3

  Eat a balanced diet that includes the proper amount of calcium and vitamin D. Calcium is essential for bone development and vitamin D is important for calcium absorption. People need different amounts of these substances at different stages of life. Prior to menopause, women should get at least 1,000 milligrams (mg) of calcium and 800 international units (IU) of vitamin D every day. After menopause those numbers go up to 1,500 mg of calcium and 800 IU of vitamin D daily.

• 4

  Quit smoking and limit your intake of alcohol and caffeine. Smoking increases bone loss, and excessive alcohol and caffeine appear to inhibit the formation of new bone. However, moderate consumption of alcohol and caffeine do not appear to affect osteoporosis.

• 5

  Consider medications that can help prevent, slow or reverse bone loss. Many medications have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of osteoporosis, including hormone therapy. Consult your physician to determine whether one of these treatments might work for you.