Understanding Osteoporosis: Prevention, Treatment, and Everyday Strength

Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by decreased bone density and the breakdown of bone tissue, which can increase the risk of fractures.[1][2]As the world's population ages, the prevalence of osteoporosis is projected to increase.[3]Osteoporosis is more common in individuals over the age of 50 and affects people of both biological sexes, but it is more prevalent in women.[4]Most people don’t realize they have osteoporosis until it causes them to break a bone.[5]Getting diagnosed early by a healthcare professional is beneficial, but it’s also crucial to understand what osteoporosis is and the preventative measures available.

What is Bone Density?

Bone density is a measure of the amount of calcium and other essential minerals in your bones, with more minerals correlating to denser bones.[6]In a healthy individual, bones are in a constant balanced state where old bone is being broken down, and is being replaced by new bone that is being built back up.[6]However, as we age, the body tends to make less bone, therefore causing a significant decrease in bone density overall.[6]Losing bone density can significantly weaken your bones, predisposing them to fractures and various injuries.[6]Due to this, it is critical to proactively take preventive measures to increase bone density to decrease the risk of osteoporosis.

Preventative Measures for Osteoporosis

Two potential methods to reduce the risk of osteoporosis:

1. There are a variety of dietary choices and supplements that can help support healthy bone density.

a. Calcium is vital for rebuilding and strengthening bones.[7–9]For individuals over 50 years old, it is recommended to consume 1200mg of calcium per day, while those under 50 should consume about 1000mg.[7][8]The most common dietary sources of calcium are milk, cheese, and yogurt.[8]

b. Vitamin D is also critical, as, at the molecular level, it helps the body absorb calcium.[7]This primarily comes from the sun; however, supplements are also a common source of intake.

c. Protein is essential for maintaining greater bone mass.[7]Less protein would mean more fragile bones and less overall muscle, leaving you prone to fractures and injuries.

2. Specific weight-bearing physical activity can help strengthen bones, helping prevent bone loss and fractures.

   
   

a. There are various weight-bearing physical activities, including walking, upper back strengthening, stability and balance exercises, and flexibility routines.[10]These help reduce the risk of injury.[10]

The Impact of Osteoporosis on Quality of Life

It has been shown that osteoporosis reduces overall quality of life, particularly in the domains of physical and social function.[11]Osteoporosis can cause frequent fractures and ongoing pain, restricting mobility and independence, and making everyday activities challenging.[11]These physical limitations can often lead to social isolation, as individuals may shy away from social engagements or leisure activities out of fear of injury or discomfort.The emotional toll, such as anxiety, depression, and frustration, further reduces the quality of life for those affected by the condition. This underscores the importance of taking preventive measures.

Considerations

Osteoporosis is a widespread yet often unnoticed condition that can significantly affect mobility, independence, and overall quality of life.Understanding age-related changes in bone density and emphasizing the importance of proper nutrition, regular physical activity, and early diagnosis can help individuals take steps to safeguard their bone health.Being proactive about prevention and raising awareness are essential for lowering fracture risks and preserving long-term strength and well-being.

Consult your healthcare provider about scheduling a bone density test, particularly if you're over 50 or have risk factors.

Just like having strong bones, it’s also crucial to ensure you have a solid financial plan.These are the kinds of connections we explore at our seminars, where health, lifestyle, and financial planning come together. You will also have the chance to meet Dave, Faisal, and the rest of our team.Register today at morethanmoneyradio.com/seminar-registration

The author is not a medical professional. The above content was accumulated through various sources and is intended for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical recommendations. Readers should consult a physician or their family doctor for professional health and medical advice.

David Popowich and Faisal Karmali are Investment Advisors with CIBC Wood Gundy in Calgary.

The views of David Popowich, Faisal Karmali, and the guest author and referenced material do not necessarily reflect those of CIBC World Markets Inc.

This information, including any opinion, is based on various sources believed to be reliable, but its accuracy cannot be guaranteed and is subject to change.

CIBC Private Wealth consists of services provided by CIBC and certain of its subsidiaries, including CIBC Wood Gundy, a division of CIBC World Markets Inc.

References

[1] Osteoporosis Canada. What is Osteoporosis? [Internet]. Available from: https://osteoporosis.ca/what-is-osteoporosis/

[2] StatPearls. Osteoporosis. In: NCBI Bookshelf [Internet]. 2025. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441901/

[3] Cleveland Clinic. Osteoporosis – symptoms, causes and treatment [Internet]. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4443-osteoporosis

[4] Stanghelle B, Bentzen H, Giangregorio L, Pripp AH, Bergland A. Associations between health-related quality of life, physical function and pain in older women with osteoporosis and vertebral fracture. BMC Geriatr. 2019;19:298. Available from: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12877-019-1268-y

[5] Cleveland Clinic. Osteoporosis – symptoms, causes and treatment [Internet]. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4443-osteoporosis

[6] MedlinePlus. Bone Density — topic overview [Internet]. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/bonedensity.html

[7] Osteoporosis Canada. Bone Health & Osteoporosis / Nutrition [Internet]. Available from: https://osteoporosis.ca/nutrition/

[8] Alberta Health Services. Am I eating well for my bones? [PDF] [Internet]. Available from: https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/assets/info/nutrition/if-nfs-am-i-eating-well-for-my-bones.pdf

[9] Government of Alberta. Osteoporosis / bone health information — MyHealth Alberta [Internet]. Available from: https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?Hwid=hw261247

[10] Mayo Clinic Staff. Osteoporosis — in-depth: Symptoms and causes [Internet]. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoporosis/in-depth/osteoporosis/art-20044989

[11] Rizzo M, Tammaro G, Guarino A, Basso M, Cozzolino A, Mariconda M. Quality of life in osteoporotic patients. Orthop Rev (Pavia). 2022 Oct 13;14(6):38562. doi: 10.52965/001c.38562. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9568431/