Common among seniors, osteoporosis is a condition that occurs when the body loses too much bone mass or is unable to replenish it in a timely fashion. When left untreated, this disease can weaken skeletal strength and lead to an increased risk of falls and fractures. Fortunately, you can keep your bones healthy throughout your life with regular visits to a medical center and a few preventative measures. 

How to Keep Your Bones Healthy & Strong

1. Stay Away From Smoking

Tobacco use is heavily associated with an increased risk of developing osteoporosis, as well as experiencing a bone fracture. If you smoke, talk to your doctor about potential ways you can quit — such as by using nicotine patches or smoking cessation medication.

2. Get Plenty of Calcium

It takes many nutrients to build and maintain a strong skeleton. Calcium — found in dairy, spinach, and other produce items — is one of the most important nutrients, as it helps increase bone mass. You should also eat a healthy dose of fruits and vegetables so that you’ll have enough vitamin C to boost your immune system and protect your body against bone loss. Protein-rich foods — such as dairy, meat, and fish — will also help increase your bone mineral density.

3. Embrace Exercise

With a doctor’s approval, regular fitness of all kinds can help boost your overall skeletal health. In particular, weight-bearing activities — such as walking, strength training, tennis, and dancing — all help your body produce more bone mass. Physical activity also strengthens muscle and burns excess fat to help take unnecessary stress off the bones.

4. Get Outdoors More

While it’s important to embrace good UV protection habits when you’re outside, getting out in the sun is still important for your bone health. When your skin absorbs sunlight, you produce vitamin D — a nutrient that helps the body use calcium properly. If you have low vitamin D levels, visit a medical center to ask about a supplement. 

5. Have a Bone Density Test

Seniors should visit a medical center for a bone density test to determine if they have or are at risk for developing osteoporosis. If you have bone health issues, your provider may recommend taking preventive medications, refining your diet, starting physical therapy, or using nutritional supplements to protect your skeleton.  

Providing comprehensive health care to patients of all ages, Fairbanks Clinic is an exceptional resource for all local residents who want to protect their bones. Backed with advanced tools, this Fairbanks, AK-based medical center can perform accurate diagnostic services, including bone density testing, to assess your osteoporosis risk. If necessary, this caring hospital can also introduce you to safe and effective osteoporosis treatment options, as well as provide swift emergency care to address fractures. Visit the clinic online to learn more about their resources or call (907) 452-1761 to schedule an appointment with a friendly doctor today.