Many of us have bone loss due to chemotherapy or surgery effects. Here are some facts to know in order to prevent further bone loss - from
this article.
Calcium is the building block of bones. Men should get at least 1,000 mg of dietary calcium per day. That number increases to 1,200 mg for women and 1,500 mg for postmenopausal women.
Tobacco Use - The exact role tobacco plays in osteoporosis isn't clearly understood, but researchers do know that tobacco use contributes to weak bones.
Lack of Exercise - Any weight-bearing exercise stimulates osteoclasts, the cells that rebuild bone. Studies have shown that women who exercise regularly before reaching peak bone mass in their 30s, have stronger denser bones as they age. Although being physically active early in life boosts bone health, bone density can be increased through exercise at any age.
Alcohol Abuse - For men, alcoholism is one of the highest risk factors for osteoporosis. Excess consumption of alcohol reduces bone formation and interferes with the body's ability to absorb calcium.
Inadequate Sun Exposure - The sun's rays provide the body with vitamin D, a mineral that helps bones absorb calcium. Doctors recommend that people get at least 15 minutes of sunlight each day.
Caffeine- Caffeine in coffee and carbonated beverages can leech calcium from the bones. In fact, the caffeine in six ounces of coffee or two cans of soda can cause up to five milligrams of calcium to be released from the bones.
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