According to Harvard Health Publishing, osteoporosis currently affects approximately 10 million Americans.

Women are far more susceptible than men. Of those 10 million cases, about 80 percent occur in women and 20 percent in men.

In addition, another 43 million Americans have low bone mass (osteopenia), meaning there is a strong possibility they could eventually develop osteoporosis.

What’s especially alarming is that these 53 million Americans represent roughly 43 percent of all adults age 50 and older. In other words, nearly half of older adults are dealing with bone density concerns.

What makes osteoporosis particularly challenging is that it is often called a “silent disease.” It can develop slowly over many years without causing noticeable symptoms or discomfort. For many people, the first sign of a problem is a fracture.

The obvious question is: What’s happening to our bones that has made osteoporosis such a widespread public health concern?

There are several factors at play. But first, let’s explore why osteoporosis rates continue to rise despite the abundance of calcium supplements available today.

Healthy Bones Are About More Than Calcium

Building and maintaining healthy bones requires approximately 20 different nutrients.

While calcium receives most of the attention, it is only one piece of the puzzle.

Other nutrients involved in bone health include vitamin D3, magnesium, zinc, manganese, copper, boron, potassium, phosphorus, vitamin K2, folate, and protein. Unfortunately, many of these nutrients are rarely discussed when conversations about osteoporosis arise.

This helps explain why our heavy focus on calcium alone has done little to reduce osteoporosis rates.

In fact, excessive calcium intake may create problems of its own.

When calcium is consumed in excess, it can accumulate in soft tissues, including blood vessels and heart valves. It can also contribute to the development of kidney stones in some individuals.

Don't Overlook Vitamin C

Vitamin C plays several important roles in supporting strong bones.

It helps stimulate the activity of bone-building cells, supports collagen production, helps protect against oxidative stress, and may help reduce bone breakdown.

Vitamin C also works alongside vitamins D3 and K2 to support proper calcium utilization throughout the body.

Many of Us Are Eating Our Way Toward Osteoporosis

Another major contributor to poor bone health is diet—particularly diets high in heavily processed foods.

Here's what happens behind the scenes:

Your body works hard to maintain a tightly regulated blood pH within a very narrow range. When metabolic processes create excess acid, your body has mechanisms to help maintain that balance.

First, excess acid is removed through breathing and the kidneys.

When additional buffering is needed, the body may draw upon alkaline mineral reserves, including calcium and other minerals stored in bone tissue.

Over time, poor dietary habits combined with inadequate nutrient intake can place added stress on the body's ability to maintain healthy bones.

This is why simply taking calcium supplements is not enough. If highly processed foods remain a staple of your diet, you may be working against your bone-health goals.

Osteoporosis Drugs Have Limitations

Bisphosphonate medications such as Fosamax and Boniva work by slowing bone resorption, the natural process by which bone tissue is broken down and remodeled.

Reducing bone breakdown can improve bone density measurements. However, bone health involves more than density alone.

Healthy bones require both reduced bone loss and the ongoing formation of new bone tissue.

Like all medications, osteoporosis drugs also carry potential side effects, including digestive issues, muscle and joint pain, dizziness, headaches, kidney concerns, and other risks that should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

What Can You Do to Support Strong Bones?

The good news is that there are several practical steps you can take to support healthy bones throughout life.

Eat a Nutrient-Dense Diet

A diet rich in whole, minimally processed foods provides your body with the nutrients needed for bone health.

Focus on:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• High-quality protein sources such as meat, poultry, fish, and eggs
• Full-fat dairy products if tolerated
• Nuts, seeds, and legumes

At the same time, limit processed foods, fast food, and sugary beverages, particularly soda.

Get Regular Exercise

Exercise is one of the most effective ways to support both muscle and bone strength.

Weight-bearing activities and resistance training are especially beneficial, but even regular walking can make a meaningful difference.

If you have been inactive or have existing health concerns, consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new exercise program.

Your bones—and your overall health—will thank you.

Support Healthy Vitamin D Levels

Vitamin D3 is essential for calcium absorption and bone health.

Unfortunately, vitamin D deficiency remains extremely common.

Spending time outdoors when possible and supplementing appropriately may help support healthy vitamin D levels.

Products such as Optimum DK Formula with FruiteX-B provide vitamin D3 along with vitamin K2 and boron, nutrients that work together to support healthy bones.

Review Your Medications with Your Doctor

Certain medications have been associated with increased bone loss and fracture risk.

Long-term corticosteroid use is one well-known example. Research has also identified a connection between proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and an increased risk of osteoporosis-related fractures, potentially due to reduced calcium absorption.

Other medications that may affect bone health include:

• Certain antidepressants and antipsychotics
• Some blood pressure medications
• Thiazolidinedione (TZD) diabetes medications
• Immunosuppressants
• Muscle relaxants
• Opioid pain medications

If you take any of these medications, discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider before making any changes.

The Bottom Line

Osteoporosis does not have to be an inevitable part of aging.

Whether your goal is prevention or slowing existing bone loss, the choices you make today can have a meaningful impact on your future bone health.

By focusing on nutrient-rich foods, regular exercise, healthy vitamin D levels, and informed conversations with your healthcare provider, you can take important steps toward building and maintaining stronger bones.

Start now—your future self will thank you.

To your health,

Sherry Brescia