Risk Factors for Osteoporosis

Many people are under the assumption that the only group of individuals that are at risk for osteoporosis are women of post menopausal age.  This is certainly not the case.  Although this age group is at a higher risk due to the estrogen deficiency, there are life style factors that put people at risk as well. 

• Chronic, long term high stress - stress leads to elevated cortisol levels.  Chronic stress leads to impaired bone building because of the cortisol production
• Insufficient physical exercise - weight bearing exercise are recommended 3x a week
• Low calcium intake - even though dairy provides a good amount of calcium, many people have dairy allergies or sensitivities.  There are many other foods that contain calcium such as green leafy vegetable, almonds, sesame seeds and soy products
• Low Vitamin D - the best source of vitamin D is from the sun and since this is not always a viable option, supplementation is beneficial
• High phosphorous intake - meat and carbonated drinks are high in phosphorus which can inhibit calcium absorption
• Low stomach acid - as we age, stomach acid can decrease and this affects how nutrients are absorbed