11 Risk Factors for Osteoporosis

How to be Healthy: Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become fragile and brittle, leading to a higher risk of fractures (breaks or cracks) than in normal bone.

Here are the 11 risk factors that can cause this illness, but these factors can be prevented, with a proper exercise and healthy diet. Be healthy and stay fit.

1. Being a woman. Although men can suffer bone fractures, too, women start out with smaller, less-dense bones than men, raising their risk.
2. Getting older. As we all get older, it’s just a fact that our bones get thinner.
3. Having a small frame. Being especially thin may put you at a greater risk for bone loss as you age. But heavier people get it, too.
4. Family history. A family history of fractures or osteoporosis may mean you have a higher risk.
5. Going through menopause. After menopause, your body produces less estrogen, a hormone that protects your bones.
6. Being Caucasian or Asian. These groups are at a higher risk, although Hispanic and African American women are not immune
7. Not getting enough calcium and vitamin D. Your body needs vitamin D to help it absorb calcium, which is crucial to building strong bones throughout your life.
8. Eating disorders. Anorexia or bulimia can rob your body of the essential nutrients it needs to build strong bones.
9. Smoking. Smoking increases loss of bone mass.
10. Inactivity. The less physically active you are, the more bone loss you will experience as you age.
11. Drinking too much alcohol. While the link between alcohol and loss of bone density is in question, we do know that women who drink have a higher rate of bone fractures from accidents.

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