Osteoporosis is a disease that usually comes on gradually, later in life. It is a result of the slow loss of density in the bones that happens as the body ages, and results in brittle bones that break more easily than healthy ones. Osteoporosis is also implicated in a form of arthritis called osteoarthritis, which is pain caused by the wearing of bones at the joints.

Preventing Osteoporosis

The old adage "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" is doubly true with osteoporosis. Although certain people are predisposed to osteoporosis, the disease is strongly related to the amount of calcium in your diet. Calcium is the crucial ingredient in bones and teeth, and healthy levels of calcium can prevent or slow the progress of osteoporosis. The key is to make sure that you get enough calcium your whole life.

Calcium supplements are available in a variety of forms. Many choose to take a supplement that has other beneficial health benefits as well. If you suspect you may be predisposed to osteoporosis, you might want to start taking supplements, even well before your older years. Even if you think you're in the clear, eating a diet high in calcium is good for you in many ways. Some high calcium foods include dairy products such as milk and cheese, nuts such as hazels and almonds, and unbleached flour or sugar.

You should be cautious with your calcium intake, though. If your body accumulates too much, it forms into crystals in your kidneys, which then must be removed by urination--a very painful process. If you're not sure how much calcium you need in your diet, talk to a doctor about getting a bone density test to see if you are in danger of osteoporosis.