Now accepting Telehealth appointments. Schedule a virtual visit.
Skip to main content

Tips for Preventing Osteoporosis

  Tips for Preventing Osteoporosis

Did you know that you can play a role in keeping your bones protected, strong, and healthy? As you age, you might begin to experience the weakening of your bones, which is a disease called osteoporosis. This condition can increase your risk for fractures and other complications. 

At The Riegel Center in Plano, Texas, Christopher J. Riegel, MD, and our professional medical team have the expertise and experience to not only treat your osteoporosis but can also help you prevent it.

Here are some of the practical ways you can promote your bone health:

1. Don’t smoke

Smoking is not your friend. It prevents your bones from absorbing the calcium it needs, which increases your risk for fractures and bone loss. 

Your bones also need estrogen to help you hold onto strengthening minerals, but smoking decreases your estrogen levels. If you smoke during your growing years, you can prevent your bones from reaching their peak levels, And, if you smoke after age 30, you can accelerate your loss of bone mass.

2. Exercise

Though cardio exercise is good for your heart, weight-bearing exercises are the best for building and protecting your bones. It’s important to have a mix of cardio and weight-bearing exercises to keep your heart and bones healthy. 

Resistance training makes your muscles move against your bones, which prompts the growth of new bone tissue and prevents bone thinning and bone loss. This type of exercise involves using dumbbells, your body weight, or any object that causes your muscles to contract.  

3. Eat a balanced diet

A diet rich in fruits and vegetables supports your immune system, reduces your risk for chronic diseases, and promotes better bone density, which decreases your risk of osteoporosis. You should also reduce your intake of sodas, coffee, and alcoholic beverages to avoid compromising your bone quality. 

4. Take vitamin D

Vitamin D plays a key role in helping your body absorb calcium. You get vitamin D through sun exposure and your diet. 

You can find vitamin D in foods like egg yolks and fatty fish, but it can be difficult to rely solely on natural ways to get your full intake. That’s why you may need a supplement to help compensate if you’re deficient.

5. Consider bioidentical replacement hormone therapy

If you suffer from hormone imbalances, Dr. Riegel provides a proprietary blend of bioidentical hormones tailored specifically for your blood chemistry. This therapy is a safe and easy way to keep your bones healthy.

To learn more about osteoporosis and how to prevent it or help manage it, call our friendly office staff today or click here to request an appointment. We’re here to help!

You Might Also Enjoy...

The Benefits of Sleep Management

The Benefits of Sleep Management

Struggling to get enough rest? Discover how sleep management can transform your health, mood, and performance. Keep reading to discover the benefits and start sleeping better tonight!
How Does Testosterone Affect Aging?

How Does Testosterone Affect Aging?

As you get older, numerous processes in your body change. One example is that you make less collagen and elastin, which is why you begin to develop smile creases. Another is that your hormone levels begin to decrease, leading to surprising changes.
The Secret to Boosting Your Libido During Menopause

The Secret to Boosting Your Libido During Menopause

Menopause is called “the change of life” for good reason — it brings lots of changes. For many women, one change is a decline in sexual desire. Here’s how we can help restore your libido and improve your quality of life.
Ways Hormones Affect Your Appearance

Ways Hormones Affect Your Appearance

Many people think of hormones only in terms of reproductive health. But hormones play other roles, including those affecting how we look. Here’s how hormones could take a toll on your appearance — and how we can help.
The Link Between Hormones and Sleep

The Link Between Hormones and Sleep

When you experience sleep difficulties without a clear cause, it may be due to hormone imbalances. Learn more about how your hormones can affect your ability to get the rest you need and what you can do to sleep well at night.