Over many years, bones become thin and brittle, susceptible to breaks, cracks and fractures. Osteoporosis can affect anyone regardless of sex or race. Today, approximately 25 million Americans suffer from osteoporosis. Because osteoporosis develops so slowly, it can take years before people realize they have it. By then it can be too late.
Osteoporosis has many causes, both controllable and uncontrollable.
Some controllable risk factors include inadequate calcium intake, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, consuming a lot of soft drinks or beverages with caffeine, and excessive alcohol consumption. Regular weight-bearing exercise stimulates bone formation. Good exercise choices include walking, running, jumping rope, dancing and weight lifting. Stop smoking and limit caffeine, alcohol, and soft drinks. Smoking lowers the sex hormones which stimulate bone formation.