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Illustrated Health Encyclopedia
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Ency. home > Disease > O > Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis    See images

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Alternative names:

Thin bones

Prevention

Throughout life, dietary intake of calcium is essential for bone formation and maintenance of healthy bone. Dietary Vitamin D, which aids in the absorption of calcium, is also essential. Maintaining a healthy diet as recommended by the FDA, which includes a sufficient amount of calcium, phosphorous, and Vitamin D, is very important.

Avoiding smoking and excess alcohol consumption can help prevent osteoporosis.

Regular exercise can reduce the likelihood of bone fractures. Studies show that exercises requiring muscles to pull on bones cause the bones to retain, and maybe even gain density.

Post-menopausal women, especially those with reduced bone density, may consider intervention with estrogen replacement therapy. This may prevent bone loss or fracture in some people.

There are a number of side effects associated with estrogen replacement therapy, and the option should be discussed thoroughly with your health care provider. A number of new medications for the prevention of osteoporosis, including raloxifene and alendronate, are currently available and FDA approved.

Ency. home > Disease > O > Osteoporosis

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