Key Nutrients and Medications to Prevent Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis weakens bones, increasing fracture risk and impairing the body's ability to regenerate bone mineral density. It becomes more prevalent with age, especially affecting the wrists, spine, and hips. While medications and weight-bearing exercises are often recommended, lifestyle changes focusing on nutrition can also play a crucial role in prevention.
Essential foods to include
Foods rich in calcium are vital for bone strength; include leafy greens like kale, turnip, spinach, collard greens, and dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt.

Those intolerant to lactose can opt for soy milk and fortified beverages. Vitamin D-enriched foods like fortified juices and cereals improve calcium absorption.

Protein and magnesium sources
Lean meats like chicken and turkey, eggs, fish, and seafood are excellent protein sources. Nuts such as almonds, cashews, and peanuts, along with seeds, are rich in magnesium, supporting bone health.

Vitamins C and K rich foods
Fruits like oranges, lemons, kiwis, and tomatoes provide vitamin C, which boosts immunity and helps prevent osteoporosis. Green vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, turnip greens, and cabbage supply vitamin K, crucial for bone integrity.

Medications for osteoporosis
Romosozumab (Evenity) is an FDA-approved monoclonal antibody that reduces bone resorption and stimulates new bone growth, primarily prescribed for postmenopausal women.

Prolia® is an intravenous drug that inhibits the activity of cells that break down bone, helping preserve bone density.

Fosamax (alendronate) is a medication that minimizes bone loss, especially effective for women post-menopause.