Treating Osteoporosis

To prevent osteoporosis and the risk of fracture, a diet rich in calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D, found in legumes, avocados, and nuts, is recommended.

Calcium intake

If you don't get enough calcium in your diet, taking supplements may be necessary. The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends a daily calcium intake of 1000 mg for most adults and 1200 mg for women over 50 and men over 70.

Vitamin D intake

This vitamin is important to help the body absorb calcium from the foods we eat. The recommended daily dose is between 400 and 800 international units (IUs) for adults under 50, and 800 to 1000 IUs for those over 50. These are the current guidelines from the National Osteoporosis Foundation. You may need a different dose, depending on the levels of vitamin D in your blood, sometimes up to 50,000 units per week for 12 weeks.

There are also medications containing antiresorptive or bone-forming agents, such as bisphosphonates, parathyroid hormone (PTH), monoclonal antibodies, and others, which can be prescribed by a doctor based on a patient's comorbidities (what other disorders or diseases they have) and preferences.

Avoid being sedentary and do moderate exercise

Doing a moderate physical activity with some impact is recommended, such as jumping, walking, or dancing, along with other activities like yoga and tai chi, which have additional benefits when it comes to preventing falls and fractures.

Exercise slows muscular atrophy, improves joint mobility, directly promotes bone formation, and improves neuromuscular coordination.

A fracture can also be avoided by: 

• Avoiding toxic habits such as tobacco and alcohol.
• Learning how to prevent falls.
• Maintaining healthy posture habits, such as sitting with your back straight and not curving it when moving weights.
• Doing moderate exercise.