Things to stay away from

Here are things to stay away from to help prevent osteoporosis:

• Alcohol. This is toxic to bones. It is a major cause of bone loss. Heavy drinking can cause osteoporosis even if you have no other risk factors.

• Smoking. This reduces bone mass. Smoking may also interfere with estrogen levels and cause early menopause.

• Inactivity. Not being active makes your bones lose strength and become thinner. Over time, thin bones may break. Women who aren't active are at a high risk for osteoporosis.

• Certain medicines. Some medicines, such as cortisone, increase bone loss. They also decrease bone growth. Ask your health care provider about any side effects of your medicines and how to prevent them. If you need to take a medicine that causes bone loss, consult with your provider to calculate the lowest possible dose that you can take to control your symptoms. Don't stop any treatment or change the dose of your medicines unless your provider says it’s safe to do so.

• Protein-rich or salty foods. Eaten in large amounts, these foods may deplete calcium.

• Caffeine. This increases calcium loss. People who drink a lot of coffee, tea, or soda lose more calcium than those who don't.

Ways to help prevent bone loss

Here are things you can do to help prevent bone loss:

• Maintain a healthy body weight.

• Be physically active and exercise regularly.

• Eat foods that promote healthy bones.

• If the medicine you need to take causes bone loss, talk with your health care provider about taking the lowest dose for the shortest amount of time, and ask about adding calcium and vitamin D.

• Make your home safe by reducing hazards that increase your risk of falling and breaking bones.

• If you are a woman over 50, talk to your provider about protecting your bone health during menopause.

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your provider about any need to take calcium supplements.

Talk with your provider about specific ways you can follow these tips to prevent bone loss.