Your body and osteoporosis.

It is known as "a silent disease," because there are typically no symptoms until a bone breaks or fracture occurs. It affects millions worldwide.

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis affects the strength and density of your bones. Your bones consist of outer layers and inner layers. The inner workings of a bone's composition are devised as "a cable-like network." This "network" thins if osteoporosis affects your body, impacting the strength and durability of your bones.

If you are diagnosed with osteoporosis, you are more likely to suffer bone breaks. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation of South Africa (NOFSA), 1 in 3 women over the age of 50 could be affected by or diagnosed with this debilitating disease.

Although women are statistically more vulnerable, men are also affected by it.

Tips to support your health needs:

1. Getting enough sleep: Sleep is important for your body's recovery after a long day. Which is also a natural immune booster.

2. A healthy calcium and vitamin D-enriched diet: Fuelling your body with healthy foods[LP2] strengthens your immune system and bone health, as well as helps to maintain your overall health. Foods rich in vitamins that support bone health are food such as, milk, cheese, tofu, soya beans, nuts, leafy green vegetables and, breads made with fortified flour.

3. Regular exercise: Exercising regularly is advantageous for your overall health and, it helps prevent bone loss.

4. Health supplements and vitamins: Taking a calcium and vitamin D supplement could help support your bone health.

As with most of us, eating a balanced meal regularly can be challenging. This means your body is not getting the required vitamins, minerals, and nutrients it needs. Lowering the defenses of your immune system, vascular system and your bone health, leaves you vulnerable.

Adding a daily calcium supplement to your routine could be advantageous to your overall health and well-being.

Speak to a healthcare provider about the right supplement for you.

5. Smoking and Alcohol: Limiting your smoking habits or alcohol intake can help keep your bones healthy.

6. The probability of you being diagnosed with osteoporosis could be higher if one of your family members has been diagnosed with this disease. This means it could be hereditary. Getting regular check-ups and asking a healthcare professional for advice will also help identify risk factors.

7. Self-care should be a priority in everyone's daily routine. This helps identify the needs your body has.

"To succeed in life, you need three things:

a wishbone, a backbone, and a funny bone."

Reba McEntire