Nutrition, especially calcium, plays an important role in preventing osteoporosis. In people who have healthy bones, adequate calcium intake on a daily basis is necessary to maintain bone health. For older adults, studies have shown that adequate calcium intake can slow bone loss and lower the risk of fracture. Protein is another important nutrient for building and repairing body tissues, including bones.
For those who are lactose intolerant or who have a milk allergy, options such as calcium-fortified soy, almond and rice beverages, calcium-fortified orange juice and canned salmon or sardines are great calcium-rich alternatives.