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Osteoporosis is one of the most common types of arthritis. This condition results in too much loss of calcium in the bones. An excessive loss of calcium results in loss of bone density. The bones become brittle and fragile, substantially increasing the risk for bone fractures. Women are much more likely to experience loss of calcium and decreased bone density.

Like many conditions, prevention is the key to keeping osteoporosis at bay. If you know that you’re at risk for osteoporosis, consider consuming a high calcium diet. Most health professionals recommend a diet that includes 1500 mg of calcium each day. Foods that are rich in calcium include milk and dairy products, and fish such as salmon and sardines.

Sometimes Vitamin D may be necessary in order to aid in the absorption of the calcium. Vitamin D can also be absorbed naturally simply by spending more time in the sun.

You may be able to take just one multivitamin to fulfill all your calcium and vitamin D needs. As always, you’ll want to speak with your doctor to make sure you’re getting all the nutrients you need to prevent osteoporosis, and to discuss whether you’ll need to supplement your diet.

If you are a smoker or drinker, your doctor may also advise that you limit these activities as much as possible. Research has shown that smoking can lower estrogen levels, leaving your bones more at risk for losing bone mass. Moderate to heavy alcohol use has also been linked to loss of bone density.

Another important preventive step is to ensure you’re getting some form of regular physical exercise. Weight bearing exercises and sports have been shown to improve muscle strength and can help build bone mass. Walking is another good overall choice.

For many women who have already been diagnosed with osteoporosis, one viable treatment option is estrogen treatment. Estrogen replacement therapy can reduce women’s risk for developing osteoporosis. This form of therapy can help increase bone mass and density in the spine and hips. However, some women have experienced side effects from the use of estrogen replacement therapy. Also, some studies have made a connection between estrogen replacement therapy and an increased risk of breast cancer. However, estrogen has also been shown to reduce the risk of heart failure and attacks.

There are other treatment options available for individuals suffering from osteoporosis as well. New drug therapies are currently being developed. Current options include prescription drug medications to help restore bone density and slow the progress of the condition. Talk with your doctor about the current options in order to make an informed choice about which medication fits your life and specific health circumstances the best.

If you suspect you have osteoporosis or may be at risk for developing the condition, speak with your doctor about treatment options or preventive measures that you should be taking to prevent onset of osteoporosis.