Their bones are typically denser, and the low level of estrogen they produce remains constant. Bone loss in men is more related to underlying diseases and the decline of testosterone. If you maximize bone density during youth and maintain it during midlife, you ll slow the loss of bone in later years. When osteoporosis does develop, it is critical to seek quality medical care. This can reduce the risk of spontaneous or accidental hip fracture, which is the 12th leading cause of death in postmenopausal women and a major disabler of the elderly.
Food is the best natural source of calcium.
If your diet comes up short, add a calcium supplement. To reduce the risk of kidney stones, take your calcium in smaller doses throughout the day. If you are on Pepcid, Zantac, Tagamet or Prilosec, which all decrease stomach acid, take calcium lactate or citrate instead of carbonate. Calcium can form insoluble compounds with some medications, such as Tetracycline, making both less available. Avoid natural sources of calcium such as bone meal, dolomite or oyster shell, as they may be contaminated with arsenic, lead or other toxic metals.