There are many factors that directly or indirectly affect your bone health. Keeping these in mind can help you minimise risks of low bone density,fractures and osteoporosis.
Calcium In Your Diet
"Without proper calcium availability in the body,bone density decreases considerably which in turn increases the risk for fractures," says Dr.Tejas Upasini,practising orthopedic and computer assisted joint replacement surgeon. Doctors say that calcium in the diet is a must.
Your Gender
Women are always at a greater risk of osteoporosis than men because they have less bone tissue than men.
Exercising Regularly
"Exercise helps to keep your bone in better health," says Dr.Ashish Phadnis. People who are inactive and lead sedentary lives always have a greater possibility of developing osteoporosis than someone who leads an active life.
Tobacco And Alcohol Use
Alcohol can interfere with your body's calcium absorption ability.Researchers have found that using tobacco weakens your bones. Alcoholic drinks when had regularly increases osteoporosis risk.
Size And Weight
Your Weight and size also matters. People who are too thin with a body mass index that is less than 19, or if one has a very small body frame with not much height,then the bone mass is much less. As one ages there bone health is compromised. Overweight people have problems too because their bones cannot support their body weight.At the same time long standing also will affect knee bones.
Effect Of Age On Bone Health
Also,as people age their bones become thinner and the density is lost. General practitioner Dr. A Roy says,"Calcium and Vitamin D supplements can help."
Race And Family History
A family history of fractures puts you at a greater risk. Studies say that Asians are more prone to osteoporosis.
Your Hormonal Levels
Excess thyroid can lead to bone loss. Women, suffer from bone loss dramatically at menopause because there is a drop in the estrogen levels.
Other Diseases
Anorexic or bulemic patients are at a great risk of bone loss. Surgeries for weight loss,gastrectomy and other diseases can affect your body's ability to absorb calcium.
Certain Medications
Long-term use of certain medications, can damage the bone (These include such as prednisolone and dexamethasone). Aromatase inhibitors to treat breast cancer, and other drugs harm bone health.