WELLNESS TIPS

Significant risk has been reported in people of all ethnic backgrounds. As we age, our body's ability to rebuild new bone is surpassed by the rate at which bones are being dissolved. The result, an unhealthy bone loss condition called osteoporosis. There are no sudden signs of osteoporosis. The process of losing bone will proceed undetected until pain, physical changes, fractures and/or complications appear. Due to this silent progression, osteoporosis can claim as much as 40% of peak bone mass before anything substantial is done to correct it. Osteoporosis can be prevented. Ultimately, building strong bones early in life and maintaining maximum bone structure before the age of thirty can set the stage for life long bone health. But it is never too late to consider changes to positively affect the strength of your bones. Eating healthy through a balanced diet will provide your body with the essentials for function and development. Where the diet falls short on certain key elements, supplements should be considered, such as quality sources of bioavailable calcium. Weight-bearing exercise not only benefits overall health, but it keeps bone tissue active, increasing the absorption of proteins and minerals for structural integrity. Reductions in tobacco and alcohol consumption reduce the risk of mineral leaching as well as reductions in pain and inflammation. Consulting with a qualified healthcare professional to combine both early diagnosis with lifestyle changes to maximize both prevention and treatment.

DISEASE STATISTICS:

Osteoporosis is a major public health threat for an estimated 44 million Americans. In the U.S. today, 10 million individuals are estimated to already have the disease, and almost 34 million more are estimated to have low bone mass; an increased risk factor for osteoporosis.

Of the estimated 10 million Americans having osteoporosis, 8 million are women and 2 million are men.

55% of people 50 years of age and older have low bone mass, leaving them at risk for osteoporosis and related fractures.

While osteoporosis is often thought of as an older persons disease, it can strike at any age; developing as early as in a persons twenties.

Significant risk has been reported in people of all ethnic backgrounds.