Osteoporosis Prevention at Any Age

Alqulali and Lenz recommend that people get at least 800 international units of vitamin D each day and 1,500 milligrams of calcium. Vitamin D helps with calcium absorption and can be taken in the form of supplements. Sun exposure is also a source of vitamin D, along with oily fish like sardines and tuna, indicated Alqulali.

Alqulali also stated that it is important to live a healthy lifestyle, eat a balanced diet of "rainbow" food and exercise regularly.

Lenz and Alqulali indicated that weight-bearing exercises are important in the prevention of osteoporosis.

"Combine strength training and weight-bearing, this makes the muscles and bones work together," said Alqulali. She recommends walking, running, jogging or stair climbing to help the legs, hips and lower thighs.

"How long you exercise depends on your needs; the point is to get active," Alqulali stated.

Also, eating a variety of colorful foods will ensure a balanced, calcium-rich diet.

"For children and families, calcium is really important," said Alqulali. She recommends a "rainbow" diet of different foods like almonds, broccoli, salmon, oats, soy and dairy products.

Along with prevention, testing for osteoporosis is also important.

The average recommended age that women should begin getting tested for osteoporosis is 65, Lenz said. However, if certain risk factors are present, that age may be changed to 60.

"If you've had a fracture, you should be screened (for osteoporosis)," said Lenz.

The Mayo Clinic recommends women should also be tested if they have vertebral abnormality, type one diabetes, kidney disease, thyroid disease, a family history of osteoporosis, or if they have experienced early menopause.

"When and how you do (testing and treatments), you need to be discussing with your doctor," Alqulali stated.

She indicated that osteoporosis patients have many options for medications, stating, "Treatment is on an individual basis."