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Healthy Habits to Prevent Osteoporosis

Overview

Here are some things you can do to build and strengthen your bones:

  • Get enough calcium and vitamin D.
    • Eat foods rich in calcium, like yogurt, cheese, milk, and dark green vegetables.
    • Eat foods rich in vitamin D, like eggs, fatty fish, cereal, and fortified milk.
    • Get some sunshine. Your body uses sunshine to make its own vitamin D.
    • Talk to your doctor about taking a calcium plus vitamin D supplement if you don't think you are getting enough through your diet and sunshine.
  • Get regular bone-building exercise. Walking, jogging, dancing, and lifting weights can make your bones stronger.
  • Limit alcohol to 2 drinks a day for men and 1 drink a day for women.
  • Don't smoke. Smoking can make bones thin faster. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.

Credits

Current as of: July 10, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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