Osteoporosis

Approximately, 1 in 4 women over the age of 50 have osteoporosis.  Sometimes referred to as the “silent thief”,  it usually has no symptoms and is a disease characterized by low bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue.  These lead to increased bone fragility and risk of fracture,  particularly of the hip, spine and wrist.  

The following are crucial to your bone health:

• Getting plenty of calcium -  Your bones depend on calcium for strength, approximate requirement for women 50 and older is 1200-1500mg/day.
• Vitamin D -  A key factor in calcium absorption. The sunshine vitamin, however, if you live in a climate like much of Canada you will need to supplement with approximately 800 - 2000 IU /day for women 50 and over.
• Physical activity -   assists in building and maintaining healthy bones.

So, lets all grab a straw and carton of milk,  go for a nice walk in the sunshine and keep our bones healthy!!

I referenced the following sites for the information contained in this post -


http://www.osteoporosis.ca/index.php/ci_id/8867/la_id/1.htm
http://www.womenshealthmatters.ca/centres/osteo/index.html
http://www.osteoporosis.ca/index.php/ci_id/5526/la_id/1.htm

Monica

Disclaimer -The material provided on this site is designed for information and educational purposes only. The materials are not intended to be a self diagnostic and/or self treatment tool. I encourage you to use this information as a tool for discussing your condition with your health practitioner.