You may not spend a lot of time thinking about your bones, but now is the perfect time to focus on keeping them strong and healthy. That's because osteoporosis—a silent, debilitating disease that affects 10 million people in the United States alone—can be prevented. Use this advice from Bob Greene and TheBestLife.com to find out how eating properly and exercising can help ward off the bone-weakening condition.
One major problem with osteoporosis is that you can have it and not really suffer any symptoms until a bone breaks—typically in the hip, spine or wrist. Many people don't feel pain or have any other signs before this type of occurrence. But you can determine if you're at risk by evaluating your risk factors, such as age, gender, family history and race.

Although it can strike at any age, osteoporosis typically occurs in older people, and women are four times more likely than men to be affected. As for race—white, Asian and Hispanic women seem to be most at risk. Obviously, if you have a family history of the disease, you'll also be at increased risk. Doctors can run a bone density test to determine if you have osteoporosis or an early form of the disease called osteopenia.

But you don't have to accept your bone density destiny. Improve your odds with this diet and exercise program for healthier bones.

As a reminder, always consult your doctor for medical advice and treatment before starting any program.

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