Protect Your Bones in May

Sure, you think osteoporosis is only for old people, and that may be partially true. But remember, the things you do today impact what happens tomorrow. And just so you know, women are four times more likely to develop osteoporosis than men.

May is National Osteoporosis Prevention Month and here are some things you can do to maintain healthy, strong bones (these are also great tips to share with parents and grandparents):

• get your daily recommended amounts of calcium and vitamin D (recommendations below)
• engage in regular weight-bearing exercise (baseball, basketball, soccer, tennis, weight-lifting, aerobics, dancing, and walking)
• avoid smoking and excessive alcohol
• talk to your doctor about bone health
• have a bone density test taken and take medication when appropriate

Daily Calcium Recommendations
Age - Calcium mg/day
1-3 500
4-8 800
9-18 1,300
19-50 1,000
51-up 1,200

Click here for more information on bone health.