Osteoporosis, Bone Health, & Lupus

Prevention and Treatment for Osteoporosis A Healthy Diet Every woman under the age of 30 should focus on getting enough calcium in their diet. At 30, the body has a more difficult time retaining calcium. A diet full of dark leafy greens, healthy sources of dairy (kefir milk and yogurt are excellent choices), and broccoli will deliver a healthy amount of calcium to the body. Exercise with Bodyweight As mentioned previously, exercise is another important factor for osteoporosis prevention. Although exercise might seem daunting for some Lupus Warriors—especially right after a flare—yoga, ballet, barre, pilates, and other calisthenic exercises provide enough body weight movements to strengthen the musculoskeletal system. The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends two types of exercise to help prevent osteoporosis: Weight-bearing exercises High impact (e.g., running/jogging, dancing, hiking) Low impact (e.g., using elliptical machines, stair-stepping machines) Muscle-strengthening exercises Lifting weights or performing functional exercises like flexing up on to your toes As with any exercise plan, be sure to speak with your treatment team to ensure exercises are safe and beneficial for you. Calcium Supplements Calcium pills are available to ensure there is enough calcium in the body to retain. Nutrition experts believe that calcium supplements with magnesium and vitamin d provide a better chance for optimal absorption. If osteoporosis seems inevitable and severe, Intravenous calcium therapies are available and often prescribed.

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