Health Tip: Build Strong Bones

And help prevent osteoporosis

April 29, 2009 RSS Feed Print

(HealthDay News) -- Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become weak, brittle and may break easily.

The National Women's Health Information Center offers these suggestions to help prevent osteoporosis:

Get plenty of calcium by eating or drinking dairy products, or by taking calcium supplements.
Get enough vitamin D, through exposure to sunlight (use sunscreen), supplements or milk products.
Eat a diet rich in vitamins and protein.
Get enough weight-bearing exercise (where your body works against gravity). Examples include lifting weights or climbing stairs.
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol use.
Take medication to specifically treat or help prevent bone loss.