There are some risk factors that you simply cannot change.

GENDER: 80% of people who have osteoporosis are women. Women have a higher risk of osteoporosis than men due to lower estrogen levels as they age which protects bone.

HEREDITY: About 65% of your bone health can be attributed to heredity – if your mother or father had osteoporosis, you are at a higher risk yourself.

AGE: As we age, there is a certain amount of natural bone loss, so the older you are, the higher your risk.

CERTAIN MEDICAL CONDITIONS & MEDICATIONS: There are a number of medical conditions & medications that affect bone health. Be sure to talk with your medical doctor about any conditions you have been diagnosed with or any medications you take and their potential impact on bone health.

We can’t do too much about these risk factors, but it is important that you are aware of them so that you can take extra steps to minimize their impact.

Now for the good news! 

There are a number of risk factors that you do have control over.

Some of these risk factors include getting enough daily nutrients, adequate protein intake, having a really good diet, supplementing when necessary, not smoking, limiting alcohol, increasing your physical activity - especially weight-bearing activity and high impact exercise, and remembering to improve your posture for better balance.

Additionally, before going on any medication, it's really important that you talk with your doctor or pharmacist about any medications or medical conditions you might have that could be affecting your bone health. 

This is especially important if bone density is a concern because of your gender or heredity or you've had a bone density scan and you have osteopenia or osteoporosis. 

If this is you, controlling your risk factors and increasing your prevention strategies is of utmost importance. 

It can be shocking when people realize some of these medications and/or medical conditions that have been affecting their bone health or have contributed to a diagnosis like Osteoporosis or osteopenia.

Two of the most common medication examples include: PPI medications (Proton-Pump Inhibitors) that are used for GERD or acid reflux. Brand names include Nexium or Prilosec. Steroids - like Prednisone - can also contribute to secondary osteoporosis. 

Thyroid disease and medications used to treat thyroid disease can also lead to secondary osteoporosis.

Below is a list of the most common medical conditions & medications that can negatively affect bone health. 

These lists are not exhaustive, but include the most common conditions and medications for people to be taking - sometimes for many years.

Hopefully, this training on knowing your risk factors for bone health was valuable and you learned something new!

Always remember how important it is to know your risk factors and what you can do to reduce as many as possible. 

On that note, don't forget to grab the 6 Surprising Misconceptions of Bone Health (and Why It Matters). 

After going through these Misconceptions, you'll be empowered to make informed decisions about your lifestyle to live the life you deserve & love! 

You can download this FREE resource by clicking the yellow button below