Health and Fitness Articles

Conventional wisdom has long held that calcium plus vitamin D offers the best antidote for age-related bone loss. In fact, those ubiquitous “Got Milk” commercials boast of the calcium-rich beverage’s ability to strengthen bones. And some research suggests that both calcium and vitamin D play a critical role in maintaining bone health (Heaney 2007). Since calcium is a building bloc...

Largely thought of as a female disease, osteoporosis currently affects 2 million men in the United States. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF), an estimated 12 million more are at risk. Despite the large number affected, the NOF reports that osteoporosis in males is still “underdiagnosed and underreported” (www.nof.org/men/index.htm; retrieved May 21, 2008).

National Osteoporosis Awareness Month may be next month, but reminders about enhancing bone health are always appropriate. For example, you can remind your clients that the best defense against osteoporosis is to develop strong bones, especially before the age of 30, and that regular exercise has been shown to encourage bone growth throughout life.

One in every 2 women and 1 in every 4 men aged 50 or older will suffer an osteoporosis-related hip, spine or wrist fracture during their lives (National Osteoporosis Foundation [NOF] 2005). Among women over 50, 1 in every 2 who walk into your classes has low bone density and is at risk for fracture (NOF 2005).

For many women, menopause is uncomfortable. Drops in estrogen levels can trigger mood swings, hot flashes, weight gain, sleep loss or fatigue. Menopause is also associated with an increased risk for osteoporosis and heart disease. The good news? Research shows that exercise can help. Karen Bram, a fitness professional in Gainesville, Florida, lists some good reasons to work out during this life stage and offers tips on how to approach an exercise program.