Debunking Common Myths About Bone Health
There’s a lot of misinformation out there, so let’s clear up a few common myths about bone thinning and osteoporosis.
Myth 1: Osteoporosis is only a “woman’s disease.”
Fact: While it’s true that women are at a higher risk, especially after menopause due to the sharp drop in estrogen, men are not immune. Millions of men in the United States have osteoporosis or are at high risk for it. Bone loss in men often happens later in life but can be just as serious. It’s a human health issue, not just a women’s health issue.
Myth 2: If I haven’t broken a bone, my bones must be healthy.
Fact: Osteoporosis is often called a “silent disease” because there are typically no symptoms in the early stages. You can’t feel your bones getting weaker. For many people, a sudden fracture from a minor incident is the very first sign that something is wrong. That’s why proactive screening and discussing your osteoporosis risk with your doctor is so important.
Myth 3: I just need to take a calcium pill every day to prevent bone loss.
Fact: A calcium supplement can be an important part of a bone health strategy, but it’s not a magic bullet. Building and maintaining strong bones is a team effort. Calcium needs its partners: Vitamin D for absorption, weight-bearing exercise to stimulate bone growth, and a balanced diet rich in other nutrients like protein, magnesium, and vitamin K. Relying on a pill alone is one of the most common bone health mistakes in seniors.
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