NYCityWoman.com highlights National Osteoporosis Month (May), underscoring the importance of knowing the risk factors and taking action.

NYCityWoman.com spoke to Joseph M. Lane, MD, chief of Metabolic Bone Disease Service at HSS, to discuss ways for women to manage bone health as they age, who suggested those with risk factors would benefit from earlier testing. Those factors include family history, low body weight, long term steroid use or diseases that can cause osteoporosis (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis). “Talk to your internist if you think you may be at risk and get a baseline screening,” said Dr. Lane.

As calcium is important for healthy bones, Dr. Lane advised, “Number one is to improve your diet. Eat something green every day, not peas, but leafy greens.” He also recommends building in rich dairy products, such as yogurt and almond milk.

Furthermore, exercise is a critical factor for bone health, specifically weight-bearing exercise. “You won’t change your bone density, but you’ll improve the quality of the bone,” said Dr. Lane. Rather than just walking on a treadmill, Dr. Lane suggested engaging in a variety of exercises such as Tai Chi and Barre classes in addition to walking and walking up the stairs. “Play sports and have fun. If it’s not fun, you won’t do it,” cited Dr. Lane.

Read the full article at NYCityWoman.com.