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Lifestyle choices
Several lifestyle choices can influence the development of osteoporosis:
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Exercise: Exercise that forces you to work against gravity (weight-bearing exercises such as walking or jogging) is beneficial. Other weight-bearing exercises include racquet sports, hiking, aerobic dance, and stair climbing. The benefits of exercise last only as long as you maintain the program. If you are at risk for osteoporosis, your doctor will most likely include exercise as part of your overall treatment program.
Body weight: Body weight is an important determinant of bone density. Studies have demonstrated that body weight is positively correlated with bone mineral density and that weight loss is associated with bone loss. (Increasing calcium intake appears to reduce the bone loss that accompanies weight loss.) Weight loss in older individuals has been linked to an increase in fracture risk. Researchers found that "extreme" weight loss (10 percent or more) beginning at age 50, increased the risk of hip fractures in older women and men. Conversely, a weight gain of 10 percent or more decreased hip fracture risk. Such studies suggest that maintaining weight in later life may have a protective effect on bone.
Smoking: Cigarette smoking was first identified as a risk factor for osteoporosis more than 20 years ago. Subsequent studies have also demonstrated a direct relationship between tobacco use and decreased bone density. However, not all studies have supported this finding. While the association between tobacco use and decreased bone density is fairly strong, the results are less consistent when fractures are considered. Researchers have discovered that smoking cessation, even later in life, may help limit smoking-related bone loss.
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