Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis means porous or weak bones. People with this condition are prone to skeletal fractures. Osteoporosis is a common bone disease in the United States and will affect one out of two women and one out of four men at some point in their lives.

Osteoporosis is often referred to as a pediatric disease with geriatric consequences because the quality of a person's diet while they are growing up influences how sturdy their adult bone structure will be.

Osteoporosis is treated with a combination of dietary interventions, weight-bearing exercise, smoking cessation, and, if appropriate, medications. Diets that promote bone health are rich in calcium and vitamins D and K, contain adequate amounts of high quality protein, and contain limited amounts of alcohol.