What is Low Bone Density?
Low bone density (sometimes called osteopenia) refers to bone density that is lower than the normal peak density but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis. Bone density is a measurement of how dense and strong the bones are. Having low bone density means there is a greater risk that, as time passes, you may develop bone density that is very low compared to normal. This condition is called osteoporosis.
How can you prevent osteoporosis if you have low bone density?
- Eat food that has plenty of calcium and vitamin D. Yogurt, cheese, milk, and dark green vegetables are high in calcium. Eggs, fatty fish, cereal, and fortified milk are high in vitamin D.
- Ask your doctor if you need to take a calcium plus vitamin D supplement. You may be able to get enough calcium and vitamin D through your diet.
- Get regular exercise. Do 30 minutes of weight-bearing exercise on most days of the week. Walking, jogging, stair climbing, and dancing are good choices. Do resistance exercises with weights or elastic bands two or three days a week.
- Limit alcohol to two drinks or less a day for men and one drink or less in a day for women. Too much alcohol can cause health problems.
- Do not smoke. Smoking can make bones thin faster. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.
- Prescription medicines are available for treating low bone density. But these are more often used to treat osteoporosis.
Copyrighted material adapted with permission from Ignite Healthwise LLC. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor.
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