Osteoporosis, the thinning of bones, affects millions or people, mostly women. How it happens: calcium is needed for the heart, muscles and nerves to function properly, and for blood to clot. When you are not getting enough, your body robs the bones of calcium causing them to become porous and thin.

How much calcium do you need? Most people should get 1,000 to 15,ooo mg every day. If you take a calcium supplement, make sure it contains magnesium and vitamin D, which help your bones absorb calcium. Other added minerals can be beneficial.

Osteoporosis is known as a silen disease. These are some of the signs to watch for.

• You are thinner than normal
• You have persistent back pain
• You have shrunk
• You break a bone
• You use steroids
• You smoke

If any of these warning signs apply to you or you are at all concerned, speak to your doctor about a bone density test.

For more information on nutrition or supplements contact us at:
CJM LeBlanc HealthWorks, Centrevielle Mall, 342 Main Street, Suite 121, Shediac, N.B. E4P 2E7, Tel: (506) 533-8885 or e-mail: charlotteleb@rogers.com

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes. The author or publisher cannot accept responsibility of loss or damage suffered by individuals as a result of following the advice in this article.