Osteoporosis – the hidden time bomb

Osteoporosis affects half of all women over the age of 50 but only seven per cent of women try to ensure that they get enough calcium in their diet according to a "Bone-Age" study of 4500 women commissioned by ellactiva, a calcium supplement.

Nutritionist Fiona Hunter explains, "It is important for women to get enough calcium in their diet in their 20s and 30s whilst they can still ‘lay down’ new calcium deposits and strengthen their bones. After this time, if not enough calcium is absorbed from the diet alone, the body will naturally take this from the body’s existing bone deposits. This can steadily lead to serious bone health problems in later life."

How much calcium does your body need every day?

• Children and teens: 800 to 1200mg
• During breastfeeding 1200 to 1500mg
• After 30 800mg
• Pre-menopausal women 1200-1500mg
• Post menopausal women 1200 to 1500mg

You may need to consider your calcium intake if you are following a restrictive diet or are on some types of medication so consult your GP if you think you may be a risk of calcium defiiciency.

Increasingly men are also suffering from osteoporosis so make sure all the family is getting enough calcium.

Boost your calcium intake.