Healthy, strong bones are more resistant to breakage than their less-dense counterparts. As you age, you begin to lose bone density and experience a greater risk of broken bones. Be aware of your bone-density numbers, so you can take steps to stay healthy.
SIgnificance
The density of your bones determines their likelihood to break. While you may think of your bones as solid mass, they actually consist of a matrix that can be loose like a web or densely packed together. Bone matrix that is not tightly packed cannot protect against breakage as much as dense bone. A number of conditions and lifestyle factors affect your bone density.
Testing
Your bone-density measurement refers to how much calcium and other bone minerals are present in a segment of bone. A physician measures your bone density via a scan known as a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry -- or DEXA -- scan, according to RadiologyInfo.org. Similar to an X-ray, the scanner uses less radiation and is most often passed over the legs and hips to determine your bone mineral density, according to MedlinePlus. The test is painless. After your test is concluded, your physician will compare your bone density to the average person your age and gender and assign a "T score." A good score is -1.0 or higher. A "Z score" compares bone density to others of your gender, age and race.
Effects - Low Number
The bone-density scan is one of the best predictors that you will experience hip or spine fractures, according to Washington University. Your physician will use your Z- and T-scores to make a determination about the density of your bones. A score between -1 and 2.5 indicates that you are losing bone mass, a condition known as osteopenia, according to MedlinePlus. A score of -2.5 or lower indicates osteoporosis, a condition that denotes severe bone loss and an increased risk of bone fracture.
Effects - High Number
If your T- and Z-scores indicate that your bones are at or above average bone density, this indicates that your bones are strong and you are at a reduced risk for fracture. Your bones also are the site of blood production. The same calcium found in the bones also gives strength to your teeth. Therefore, the effects of average to high bone-mineral density include stronger bones and teeth.
Prevention/Solution
In order to maintain bone health or reduce the effects of low bone density, consume foods containing calcium and vitamin D, which increases the absorption of calcium. The recommended daily allowance is 800 milligrams of calcium per day for women ages 18 to 50, according to the American Council Exercise. Consume at least 1,000 to 1,500 milligrams per day if you are older than age 60. Exercise that involves impact, such as running, jumping rope or doing step aerobics, can encourage bone growth. Avoid activities that can break down bone, such as smoking or consuming excess alcohol, caffeine beverages or drinks high in phosphates.
