Osteoporosis causes bones to become fragile and porous, making them more vulnerable to breaks and fractures. Women remain four times more likely to get osteoporosis than men, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. Because bone loss can progress without symptoms, you should have a bone density test to determine whether you have the disease. If you have osteoporosis, you can take certain steps to slow the bone loss and repair your bone density.
Medications
Certain medications can help you slow or stop the progress of osteoporosis. These medications can help prevent further bone deterioration and can even help to improve bone density. Medications that can treat osteoporosis include bisphosphonates such as Fosomax, Boniva, Actonel and Reclast, calcitonin such as Fortical and Miacalcin and estrogen replacement treatments. These medications slow the bone loss that occurs in the natural resorption, or breakdown period, of the bone's remodeling cycle, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. All of these medications have potentially adverse side effects, warns the National Osteoporosis Foundation. Discuss possible medications and treatment options with your doctor.
Calcium and Vitamin D
Getting enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet can help your body build stronger bones. Adults under the age of 50 need to get 1,000 mg of calcium each day, and adults 50 years old and older should get 1,200 mg of calcium each day, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. Your body needs vitamin D in order to absorb that calcium. You can get vitamin D through direct sun exposure and dietary sources such as egg yolks, fish and fortified milk.
Exercise
Weight-bearing aerobic activity and strength-training can help you build stronger bones. While high-impact weight-bearing activities such as running provide the best bone-strengthening exercise, lower-impact weight-bearing activities provide a better alternative for those who already have osteoporosis or weak bones, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. Low-impact weight-bearing exercises such as walking, exercising on an elliptical trainer or gardening can help you strengthen your bones and prevent further bone loss. Perform strength-training exercises with free weights or resistance bands to strengthen the bones in your upper body. If you have osteoporosis, avoid high-impact exercises such as jumping or running. These activities can cause fractures in those with weakened bones.
