By Donna Herberger and Stephen D. Rycyna, Jr. M

Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become thin, weak, and easier to break. It’s a “silent disease.” You cannot feel or see your bones getting thinner. If you have Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes, your risk of developing osteoporosis is higher. Why? Type 1 diabetics can suffer bone fractures due to low bone density, and many Type 2 diabetics have brittle bone tissue. Diabetics have a history of more falls and fractures due to developing diabetic neuropathy and vision problems. The most common bones to break are the spine, wrists, and hips.

What to do to reduce your risk of developing osteoporosis:

  1. Know your family history. Osteoporosis can be hereditary.   
  2. Daily intake of calcium with sufficient vitamin D to aid absorption. 
  3. Daily exercise! Walking and strength training are highly effective.    
  4. Maintain tight control of your blood glucose levels and keep them as close to normal as possible. 
  5. Oral medications called thiazolidinediones (TZDs) have been linked to bone loss and an increased risk of fractures. Talk to your doctor about the medications you are taking.  
  6. Consider getting a bone density test. 

The Ideal You Weight Loss Center, with its staff of Certified Weight Loss Coaches, offers a science-based, cost-effective, healthy protocol (without the use of drugs) to help you lose fat while maintaining lean tissue and muscle, with dozens of delicious food options! Weekly coaching and accountability will help you reach your weight loss goal and make healthy lifestyle changes that empower you to build lasting habits! 

Donna Herberger is President, and Stephen D. Rycyna, Jr., M.D., is Medical Director of The Ideal You Weight Loss Center, LLC. Learn more at IdealYou.com. Call 716-631-THIN (8446).