Debunking Common Myths
There’s a lot of information out there about bone health, and not all of it is accurate. Let’s clear up a few common misconceptions.
Myth 1: Osteoporosis is only a “woman’s disease.”
The Truth: While it’s true that women are at a higher risk, especially after menopause, men are not immune. Millions of men in the United States have osteoporosis or are at high risk for it. Because it’s less commonly diagnosed in men, they are often not tested until after they’ve already suffered a fracture. Men and women alike need to be proactive about their bone health.
Myth 2: If my bones don’t hurt, they must be healthy.
The Truth: This is one of the most dangerous myths. As we mentioned, osteoporosis is a silent disease. There are typically no symptoms in the early stages. You don’t feel your bones getting thinner. Pain often only occurs *after* a bone has fractured. That’s why screening and proactive lifestyle changes are so critical.
Myth 3: Taking a daily calcium pill is all I need to do.
The Truth: A calcium supplement can be helpful, but it’s not a magic bullet. As we’ve learned, building and maintaining strong bones is a team effort. You need vitamin D to absorb the calcium, weight-bearing exercise to stimulate bone growth, and other key nutrients like magnesium and vitamin K. A holistic approach that addresses diet, exercise, and lifestyle is far more effective than relying on a single pill.
