If you've been diagnosed with osteoporosis, Ridgeview Internal Medicine and Dr. Deana Al-Khateeb are here for you. Managing osteoporosis is possible and having a great relationship with your healthcare provider in Woodbridge, VA, can help you live your best life with osteoporosis.

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a chronic disease characterized by low bone mass and bone deterioration, which means weakness and fragility. It's more likely you will break a bone. Anyone can get osteoporosis but it is more common in women. Especially after menopause, hormone changes can cause women to lose bone mass at a faster rate. If you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis our Woodbridge, VA, practice is dedicated to helping you manage it and other women's health issues.

Bones don't just help you move around they are also protecting your vital organs. Bone health is critical to your overall health, but even with osteoporosis, you can still make choices that will help keep your bones healthy.

Managing osteoporosis

Your risk for osteoporosis increases with age, but there are a few things you can do to manage that risk. Use of tobacco and alcohol increases your risk and your doctor will recommend you quit smoking. A healthy diet and regular exercise are not only good for you but not getting enough exercise increases your risk of osteoporosis.

When you have osteoporosis, it's important to get the right nutrients for your bones. Eat sources of calcium and vitamin D for your bone health. Foods like low-fat dairy products and dark green leafy vegetables are good sources but you can also find a lot of nutrient-fortified products. Vitamin C also helps your body absorb calcium, and magnesium and zinc are also important nutrients you can get from healthy foods. In addition to nutrient-rich foods, eating a healthy and balanced diet can only help your body function at its best.

Exercise is another important step to take after a diagnosis. Aim to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day with a routine that includes strength-building exercises for your bone health.

Managing your health with osteoporosis is possible and Dr. Deana Al-Khateeb of Ridgeview Internal Medicine can help. Contact us for an appointment in Woodbridge, VA, at (703) 494-4116.