UTHSCSA PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT STUDIES COMMUNITY
MEDICINE PROJECT
Women Standing Strong
Bone physiology

Avoid the culprits!

Smoking, drinking alcohol and caffeine found in coffee and soft drinks can accelerate bone loss and result in an increased susceptibility to osteoporosis.

Avoid smoking, drinking coffee, caffeine, alcoholic
beverages

How can we protect our bones?

Sunshine - Vitamin D clipartVitamin D, the macromineral calcium, and weight bearing activities are key players in building strong bones.

Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin that enables the body to use and absorb calcium and phosphorus. Vitamin D comes from the skin following direct exposure to sunlight and from the diet.

clipart - Calcium - Milk, cheeseOur body needs large amounts of the macromineral calcium to help maintain healthy bone. Calcium in bone acts to support the framework allowing bone to become strong and flexible. Foods that are rich in this important dietary requirement include milk, cheese, broccoli, cauliflower, and calcium-fortified foods.

Clipart - exerciseWeight-bearing activities, such as brisk walking, stair climbing, hiking and dancing, put weight on the bones and cause new bone to form, making them stronger.

 



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©2003 UTHSCSA School of Allied Health Sciences.
Physician Assistant Studies All rights reserved. Created May 2003; updated 19 May 2003.
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