Many women suffer from Osteoporosis between the age of 45 and 60 which leads to bone loss usually affecting the spine, hips and ribs which can increase the risks of fracturing bones. It is referred to as the silent epidemic as until you fracture a bone you are unaware that you have it. Approximately 3 million people in the UK suffer from osteoporosis. If you have an early menopause or have a family history of brittle bones it may be advisable to have a DEXA scan which takes only a few minutes and can accurately detect your bone density.

It is important for all of us to adapt our eating habits and lifestyle if we wish to improve our health and quality of life as we age so that we can help prevent diseases such as Osteoporosis. Bone density declines naturally after the age of 35 however bone loss tends to be greater in females largely due to hormonal changes after menopause. Reduced levels of the hormone oestrogen increases the risk of Osteoporosis.

Bone mass is 80% influenced by genetic factors whilst 20% is environmental. Therefore even with a predisposition to Osteoporosis a healthy diet high in calcium and Vitamin D can help to prevent the condition. Read the rest of this entry »