Bone health and menopause may not feel connected, but this life stage can alter bone density.
Learn how to keep your bones healthy for life.
Read on to learn more from an OB/GYN expert.
When estrogen levels decline, that process gets disrupted.
The result is bone thats lower in density, more fragile, and more likely to fracture.
This is because mens bones continue to be protected by testosterone.
board-certified OB/GYN and author ofSex Rx: Hormones, Health, and Your Best Sex Ever
Over time, osteoporosis can make your bones weaker, more fragile, and more prone to breaks.
The best way you’re able to determine your risk?
Get a bone density assessmentalso known as a DEXA scan.
Here are some strategies to try, according to Dr. Streicher:
1.
For example, if you want strong, healthy bones, your diet should include foods to reflect that.
Calcium is especially important for people going through menopause when your risk of bone loss increases.
Thats why Dr. Streicher recommendsincreasingyour calcium intakeduring this timeto maintain bone health and help build new bone.
With all that in mind, consider taking a vitamin D supplement, says Dr. Streicher.
Quit smoking and limit alcohol
Tobacco and alcohol negatively affect our bodies in many waysbone health included.
board-certified OB/GYN and author ofSex Rx: Hormones, Health, and Your Best Sex Ever
Both substances can increase your risk of developing osteoporosis.
Heavy drinking, in this case, generally means more than eight drinks per week, according to theCDC.
Organizations like theNational Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholismalso offer a list of places to find and get help.
Once someone has osteoporosis, there are also a number of medications that will decrease fracture risk.
But if its affecting your quality of life, it shouldnt be ignored.
Talk to your doctor about the best time to get this test.
medically reviewed byAndrea Braden, MD, OB/GYN
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