Heavier women also have more estrogen which protects against bone loss. Bone mass peaks at age 30. A risk of osteoporosis is closely related to the bone density and bone health of one's parents and grandparents. The average woman needs around 1,200mg of calcium a day. A lack of vitamin D does not allow bones to absorb the calcium.
Chronic alcoholism can be cause for significant bone loss.
Tobacco use impairs bone remodeling and ovulatory function. Asian and Caucasian women have a greater chance of developing osteoporosis than Black or Hispanic women. This is due to the levels of peak bone mass, rather than rates of bone loss. Yet ALL women are at risk for osteoporosis, regardless of race or ethnicity. Thirty minutes of weight-bearing exercise three or four times a week maintains and builds bone mass.