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It seems that most of us are aware that women begin to lose bone at a more rapid rate after menopause. We're pretty well-schooled in the fact that we need about 1200mg of calcium (1500 mg if not on hormone therapy), 600 mg of magnesium and at least 1000 IU of vitamin D3 daily in order to help our bo...
One thing I did not see addressed in this article was the genetic component of osteoporosis. I have exercised faithfully for many years. I lift weights 2-3 times per week, and I am a long-time runner. I take calcium, follow a good diet, etc., but I do have osteopenia. I don't believe osteoporsis is "totally preventable". I believe exercise is certainly beneficial, but not a panacea. I have been advised to take Fosamax, but I am reluctant to take this drug. If there's more I can do to help myself, I would love to hear it!
I absolutely agree there's a genetic component to osteoporosis, Pam. Family history, esp. if it's your mother, is a red flag in the risk category. You didn't mention your age, but one aspect you didn't mention is estrogen. It's the third in the 3 necessities, along with exercise and calcium/magnesium/D, that are necessary for bone maintenance and/or growth. Another possibility to consider is that all supplements are not equal. I found this out by the long route...doing everything "right" but still gradually losing bone. I was told about a pharmaceutical grade product guaranteed to increase density. It's called Pro Bono and definitely lived up to its promise for me and for a number of my patients to whom I recommended it.
Thanks for pointing out the genetic component, Pam. It's definitely an important part of the profile for those at risk.
Good luck to you,
Sandy