Approximately 300,000 African-American women currently have osteoporosis. African-American women are more likely than white women to die following a hip fracture. As African-American women age, their risk for hip fracture doubles approximately every seven years. Adequate intake of calcium plays a crucial role in building peak bone mass and preventing bone loss. Studies indicate that African-American women consume 50 percent less calcium than the Recommended Dietary Allowance.
Lactose intolerance can also hinder optimal calcium intake.
As many as 75 percent of all African-Americans are lactose intolerant. However, a recent study found that many people who are lactose intolerant can actually digest as much as two cups of milk per day, if divided into small servings, without symptoms. Although milk and other dairy products such as cheese and yogurt are the best calcium sources, there are many non-dairy foods that also contain calcium. Sardines and salmon with edible bones and calcium-fortified orange juice are also good sources of calcium. With the results of a BMD test, you and your doctor can decide what prevention or treatment steps are right for you.