By 2020, half of all Americans over age 50 will be at risk for fractures from osteoporosis and low bone mass if no immediate steps are taken, according to a U.S. Surgeon General's Report on Bone Health and Osteoporosis.1
Eating three servings a day of dairy, in addition to regular physical activity, is an important way for the whole family to build stronger bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. In fact, the U.S. Surgeon General's Report on Bone Health and Osteoporosis recognizes dairy's unique package of nutrients that work together to help build and protect bones, including calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and protein. The report notes the importance of consuming three servings of low-fat or fat-free dairy foods each day, consistent with the recommendation in the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
The National Osteoporosis Foundation's Five Steps to Bone Health and Osteoporosis Prevention:
Talk to your healthcare provider about bone health
When appropriate, have a bone density test and take medication
Check out the information and tools below to help your patients and clients adopt healthy lifestyle habits to improve bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis throughout life.
1U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bone Health and Osteoporosis: A Report of the Surgeon General. Rockville, MD: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Surgeon General, 2004.
