Osteoporosis : risks

Most of us think of osteoporosis like a blue rinse - it's something you get when your old. Sorry, but we have news for you. There are factors that can make you at risk from a very early age.

What is osteoporosis?
This weakening bone disease occurs when the skeleton isn't allowed to reform itself after general wear and tear. As a result the bones lose their density and strength - can mean easier breaks and falls.

Oops. Sounds like me!
The main risk factor is low estrogen levels - which usually occurs post-menopausal. You have a high chance of developing osteoporosis if you:

• Are inactive
• Smoke regularly (more than 1 cigarette per day)
• Eat little calcium rich food (i.e. Cheese, milk, wholemeal bread etc.)
• Have irregular periods
• Are related to a suffer of osteoporosis