Bad habits for bone health to be aware of

As we age, it is very possible we’ll develop some bad habits, some that can even have a negative effect on our bone health. These habits may not show any immediate symptoms, but will still have serious long-term effects on our bones and overall health.

Here is a list of some of these habits that you should know about and be careful of:

Bad habits for bone health to be aware of

1. Leading a sedentary lifestyle

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One of the most common bad habits that people develop with age is a sedentary lifestyle. Sedentary behavior means sitting or lying down for extended periods of time without any physical activity.

A sedentary lifestyle is harmful to our bone health as it leads to weaker bones, reduced bone density, and an increased risk of fractures. This is one of those things that may not start out as a problem, but develop into one with time.

2. Unhealthy diet

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Another bad habit for bones that people develop with age is eating an unhealthy diet. A poor diet that lacks essential nutrients like vitamin D, calcium, and magnesium can cause a deficiency in our bodies and lead to weaker bones. It is important to eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy products to promote bone health.

3. Smoking

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Smoking is bad for you and can negatively impact you in many ways, your bone health is one of them. Smoking reduces blood flow to our bones, slows down the bone healing process, and increases the risk of fractures, making them weaker with time.

4. Certain medications

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The use of certain medications can also have a negative effect on bone health. Some medications such as steroids, which are used to treat chronic inflammation, can decrease bone density and weaken bones.

Other medicines used to treat conditions such as cancer, seizures, and thyroid disorders can have similar effects. Depending on the health reason, however, some people might find themselves with no choice but to consume such medications.

5. Poor posture

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Lastly, poor posture is another bad habit to be careful of. Slouching and poor posture can cause strain on the bones and lead to bone fractures in some cases, particularly in the spine.

It is essential to make lifestyle choices that promote good bone health, the earlier the better. While it’s true that there are some things outside someone’s control that could affect their bone health, we should still do what we can with what we can control.