Recent research indicates that the best time to build bone mass is during adolescents. Teens that consume adequate amounts of calcium have the best chance to avoid or delay getting osteoporosis later in life. Many teenager girls are more concerned with their weight and how they look. Coming down with osteoporosis 50 years from now is not a concern for this age group. M enopause is also a turning point for calcium.
Bone loss increases rapidly after menopause and can contribute to osteoporosis.
This crippling bone disease is a silent until severe problems such as pain, fractures and stooped posture begin. The good news is it is never to late to become calcium conscious. If you are one of many women who cannot or choose not to meet their calcium needs with food alone, you need to discuss calcium supplements with your health care provider. Cooperative Extension programs are available to any individual or group without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age or handicap. Named products are used for clarification and ease of discussion only and are not necessarily endorsed or promoted by the University of California Cooperative Extension.