Bone Health: Surprising Habits That May Be Weakening Your Skeleton

Bone health is a big deal, especially as we get older. About 10 million adults in the U. S. have osteoporosis, which makes their bones fragile. This condition can lead to fractures from simple actions like bending over or even coughing. But why is this happening to so many people? New research sheds light on some surprising habits that might be harming our bones. The study looked at data from nearly a million people and found that skipping breakfast and eating dinner late at night can actually increase the risk of bone fractures. These habits can affect the bones in the arms, spine, and hips. But that's not all. Other factors like drinking too much alcohol, smoking, not getting enough calcium and vitamin D, sitting around too much, and not sleeping well can also make bones weaker. It's a lot to think about, but taking care of our bones is important. To keep bones strong, experts recommend regular exercise, especially activities that involve weight-bearing and aerobic movements. Eating foods rich in calcium, like dairy products, leafy greens, and certain types of fish, can also help. If someone is at higher risk due to factors like long-term steroid use or low levels of calcium and vitamin D, they should talk to their doctor about supplements. For women going through menopause, hormone replacement therapy might be something to consider. It's all about making smart choices to keep our bones healthy and strong.