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5 Simple Ways to Protect Your Bones from Osteoporosis: What You Can and Can’t Change

Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens your bones, but with the right measures, you can reduce the risk of fractures and maintain strong bone health. 

This blog will break down the simple steps you can take to protect your bones — by focusing on what you can change and what you can’t.

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What You Can’t Change: The Non-Negotiable Known Risk Factors

While some factors are beyond your control, understanding them is key to knowing your osteoporosis risk.

1. Family History

A family history of osteoporosis or fractures can increase your likelihood of developing the condition. Genetics play a significant role in your bone density.

2. Age and Gender

As we age, bone density naturally decreases. Women, particularly after menopause, are at higher risk due to hormonal changes that affect bone mass. Men are also at risk, but typically later in life.

3. Medical Conditions and Medications

Certain conditions (like rheumatoid arthritis or hyperthyroidism) and medications (such as long-term corticosteroid use) are known to increase the risk of osteoporosis. These are factors you cannot change but can manage with guidance from your Doctor.

What You Can Change: Lifestyle Adjustments to Strengthen Your Bones

These changes can have a significant impact on your bone health, and the best part is that you have full control over them!

1. Boost Your Calcium and Vitamin D Intake

Why It Matters:
Calcium is essential for strong bones, while vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium. A deficiency in either can weaken your bones.

How to Do It:
Incorporate calcium-rich foods like dairy, leafy greens, and fortified cereals. For vitamin D, aim for sun exposure for a minimum of 10 minutes a day or consider supplements.

2. Stay Active with Weight-Bearing and Strength-Training Exercises

Why It Matters:
Physical activity helps build and maintain bone density. Weight-bearing exercises like strength training help stimulate bone growth and strengthen muscles. 

How to Do It:
Aim for 30 minutes of weight-bearing exercise most days of the week. Onero™ is a scientifically proven, effective high intensity resistance and impact training programme  shown to improve bone density and muscle strength.

3. Maintain a Healthy Body Weight

Why It Matters:
Being underweight can lead to a loss of bone mass, while being overweight can increase strain on bones and joints. Maintaining a healthy weight supports your bone health.

How to Do It:
Focus on a balanced diet with lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. If you’re unsure about your ideal weight or confused about how to incorporate calcium into your diet, consult a nutritionist or dietician.

4. Don’t Smoke and Limit Alcohol Intake

Why It Matters:
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are both detrimental to bone health. Smoking reduces bone-forming cells, and alcohol impairs calcium absorption.

How to Do It:
Quit smoking completely and limit alcohol to moderate levels (one drink per day for women, two for men). Seek help from specialists as these changes can greatly reduce your osteoporosis risk.

5. Be Aware of Your Bone Health: Take an initial risk assessment early

Why It Matters:
Taking an initial risk assessment can help you understand your bone health and identify early signs of osteoporosis, even before symptoms appear. This early awareness allows for timely intervention, and combining it with regular bone density tests helps you stay on top of your bone health and prevent fractures in the future.

How to Do It:
Get in touch with Judith about how to start your journey to better bones, especially if you’re at higher risk due to age, gender, or family history.

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Bone Health

While some osteoporosis risk factors are beyond your control, there are many ways to protect your bones and reduce your risk. By focusing on what you can change — like diet, exercise, weight management, and avoiding harmful habits — you can take proactive steps to maintain strong bones for years to come.

Take Action Now!

If you’re unsure about your osteoporosis risk, take just 1 minute to complete the IOF Osteoporosis Risk Check  on our website. It’s quick, easy, and will give you a better understanding of where you stand.

If you’re ready to take the next step, book an initial assessment with Judith to review your health and understand your bone health risks. As an accredited Onero™ Practitioner, Judith will guide you through the award-winning, evidence-based program, Onero™ designed to improve bone health, reduce fall risk and prevent fractures.

Other insights

Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens your bones, but with the right measures, you can reduce the risk of fractures and maintain strong bone health.