If you're postmenopausal, you need to be concerned about your bones. You might not realize this, but menopause can lead to the loss of bone density, which can increase your risk of fractures. That's why it's so important that you do what you can to strengthen your bones. With proper care, you can help prevent postmenopausal osteoporosis. Here are four important changes you can make that will improve your health and your bones.
Know Your Numbers
When it comes to fighting osteoporosis, one of the most important things you can do is have your doctor perform a bone density test. Through your bone density test, you doctor will be able to identify how strong, or weak, your bones are. One of the benefits of knowing your bone density numbers is that it identifies your risk of osteoporotic fractures. By knowing your risk, you can work to improve the strength of your bones, so you can reverse the effects of osteoporosis.
Cut Nicotine Out of Your Life
If you smoke, and you've reached menopause, you need to begin a smoking cessation program. Smoking can reduce bone density, and decrease your circulation and blood flow, which can increase your risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Once you quit smoking, your bones will get stronger, and your body will get healthier.
Say No to Alcohol Consumption
In addition to smoking, there's another common activity that can also increase your risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures. That common activity involves alcohol consumption. Alcohol consumption reduces your bodies ability to absorb calcium, which causes a decrease in bone density and strength. Not only that, but it also interferes with hormone levels, which are already out of balance due to menopause. You can help increase calcium absorption and regulate your hormones by eliminate your alcohol consumption.
Get Back to Nature
When you're battling osteoporosis, it's important that you take your diet seriously. Not only will you need to cut out things like processed foods and sugar, but you'll also need to increase the amount of healthy foods you eat each day. Eating a diet rich in processed foods and sugar will increase your risk of osteoporosis and fractures. However, increasing your consumption of foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, will help improve the density of your bones, so that you'll be less-prone to fractures.
Don't risk the strength of your bones. If you're postmenopausal, you need to follow the tips provided here to decrease your risk of osteoporotic fractures.
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