I know we usually associate osteoporosis with the women and the female athlete, moreover, all the drug marketing campaigns seem to focus on calcium supplements labeled in pink to tie-ins with breast cancer and soy protein. However, this type of osteoporosis marketing is unfortunate for our men.
U.S. National Osteoporosis Foundation states that 20% of the 10 million Americans with osteoporosis ARE MEN. in addition, osteoporosis in men is frequently unreported due to less Bone Mineral Density data on men than women. In fact, most men are commonly diagnosed based on female BMD ranges. For some men, the diagnosis of osteoporosis occurs by serendipity alone. Current guidelines from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force make no recommendations for the screeing of osteoporosis in men, DEXA or otherwise.
Four general risks for osteoporosis in men: Low BMD; Prior Faracture; Age; Family history of osteoporosis
National Academy of Sciences suggest adequate calcium intake:
Young men (9-18 years of age) 1300 mg a day
Adult Males (19 -50 years of age) 1000 mg a day
Adult Males ( 50+ years of age) 1200 mg a day
Vitamin D is essential for the metabolish of calcium and is often included in calcium supplements. Eggs and fortified dairy products are alternative sources of Vitamin D.
For 12 other nutrients believed to benefit bone health, I direct you to "Bone Health and Osteoporosis " report of the U.S. Surgeion General at the following URL: http://www.surgeongeneral.gov/library/bonehealth/
In Strength,
Dangerous Donna
Information supplied by American College of Sports Medicine
- Drink less alcohol since it has a bad effect on calcium which is essential to our bones.
- Include more calcium and vitamin D rich food in your diet.
- Exercise your way to healthier bones! Physical activity goes a long way.
- If you are smoking, QUIT IT.
- Make sure you get enough sleep.
- Drink essential multivitamins and those which are especially targeted for the bones (again like calcium).
Cheers!