Osteoporosis and osteopenia are varying degrees of bone loss. Bones lose some of their mineral content as a natural aging process but this loss can be slowed down or stopped in a few ways. A good diet rich in vitamin D and exercise, especially weight bearing exercises, will slow down bone loss. There are hereditary and racial factors such as it is much more common in thin people that are either Caucasian or Asian. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, consumption of sodas and alcohol can add to this bone loss.
Key Takeaways:
- Osteopenia is low bone density, while osteoporosis is the next step characterized by weak and brittle bones.
- Both diseases are diagnosed with a bone density test, which determines the strength of a bone.
- Some people are at higher risk of developing osteopenia or osteoporosis due to racial background, family history, dietary habits and life style.
“If you’re older than 30, it’s still not too late to make lifestyle changes. A balanced diet and regular exercise will help slow the loss of bone density, and delay or prevent osteoporosis.”