Preventative health approaches to reduce your osteoporosis risk

This week many of us pause to reflect, celebrate and advocate during International Women’s Day.

As a health charity focused on disease prevention, we want to shine a light on one of the many common women’s health issues which can be managed early to minimise long term health implications.

Osteoporosis will affect one in two women (and one in three men) according to the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. For women, bone density peaks at age 30, and rapidly declines around menopause when estrogen drops. To minimise this risk, there are many things we can do lifestyle wise to prevent weakening bone density and fractures later in life.

Diet can play a key role, ensuring enough calcium is consumed through dairy, or supplements. Vitamin D through healthy exposure to sunlight or supplements is also imperative. Finally, weight bearing resistance exercise helps maintain and strengthen bone density.

Adding dairy like yoghurt daily to your diet can help boost your calcium needs for strong bones.

Speak to a qualified Dietician, Physical Therapist or Physiotherapist for tailored advice on how you can proactively reduce your risk of osteoporosis.