May is National Osteoporosis Awareness Month! According to recent statistics from the International Osteoporosis Foundation, one in three women over the age of 50 worldwide will experience an osteoporotic fractures during her lifetime.

Fortunately, there are things you can do to help promote healthier bones. Our team at AFC Urgent Care Smyrna is here to help!

What Is Osteoporosis?

When we are younger, we learn about the importance of building healthy bones, which usually means getting enough calcium into our diet. However, as we age, our bones can grow more dense, which can increase the risk for osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is defined as a disease in which the density and quality of your bones is decreased. Because your bones become more fragile when living with osteoporosis, you can become more at risk for fractures.

Common Symptoms of Osteoporosis

• Low bone density
• Bones that easily fracture
• Poor posture
• Back pain
• Height changes

What Can You Do to Prevent Osteoporosis?

Fortunately, there are things you can do to help continue to improve your bone health as you age. First of all, you want to make sure you are getting your daily intake of vitamin D and calcium, as the two work together to help promote bone health.

In addition, you want to aim to get at least 30 minutes of exercise a day, as well as improve your intake of fruits and vegetables. You should also stop smoking if you are a smoker, as smoking can hinder your bone health.

Ways to Get Vitamin D

• Spend time in sunlight.
• Consume fatty fish and seafood.
• Eat more mushrooms.
• Include egg yolks in your diet.
• Eat fortified foods.
• Take a supplement, if recommended by a doctor.
• Try a UV lamp.

Are you feeling under the weather? If you are experiencing non-emergency medical symptoms, schedule an AFC TeleCare appointment with AFC Urgent Care Smyrna today.