Bone Health

Our bones are the foundation of our body, supporting us through every step of our lives. As we age, it becomes increasingly important to take care of our bone health to prevent fractures, breaks, and osteoporosis. Here are some tips for maintaining strong and healthy bones.

Get Enough Calcium and Vitamin D

Calcium and Vitamin D are essential for bone health. Calcium is necessary for strong bones, while Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium. Good sources of calcium include dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified cereals. Vitamin D can be found in fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified milk and cereals. You can also get Vitamin D from exposure to sunlight.

Incorporate Weight-Bearing Exercise

Weight-bearing exercise, such as walking, jogging, and weightlifting, can help build and maintain strong bones. These types of exercise stimulate the bones to produce new cells, helping to keep them strong and healthy.

Quit Smoking

Smoking is bad for bone health. It can decrease bone density and increase the risk of fractures and breaks. If you smoke, it's important to quit to protect your bone health.

Limit Alcohol Consumption

Drinking too much alcohol can also have a negative impact on bone health. Alcohol can interfere with the body's ability to absorb calcium, leading to weaker bones over time. Limit alcohol consumption to protect your bone health.

Get Regular Bone Density Tests

As we age, our bone density naturally decreases, making us more susceptible to fractures and breaks. It's important to get regular bone density tests to monitor your bone health and detect any changes early on.

Take Supplements if Necessary

If you are not getting enough calcium and Vitamin D from your diet, your doctor may recommend supplements to help you meet your daily needs. It's important to talk to your doctor before starting any supplements to ensure that they are safe for you.

Taking care of your bone health is important at any age. By getting enough calcium and Vitamin D, incorporating weight-bearing exercise, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, getting regular bone density tests, and taking supplements if necessary, you can help keep your bones strong and healthy throughout your life.

Dr. John Giusti, creating healthy habits at ChiroHabit 

Posted 4/21/2023