Seniors

As we move into our more senior years we want to ensure that we stay fit and healthy. Looking after our bones is critical during this time of life. Osteoporosis affects 1 in 2 women and 1 in 3 men over the age of sixty!

Following menopause, women begin to lose bone rapidly. By the age of 65 both men and women lose bone at the same rate. There are a number of things you can do to help slow this bone loss:

• Eat plenty of calcium rich foods.
• Ensure enough safe sun exposure for adequate vitamin D
• Exercise regularly

Dairy foods are a readily available source of calcium. Three to four serves of dairy foods every day will provide the recommended dietary intake for calcium. A serve is equal to:

• 1 cup (250mL) of milk
• 1 tub (200g) of yogurt
• 40g (2 slices) cheese

If you are concerned about excess weight or have high cholesterol, there is a huge range of reduced or low fat dairy products on the market to choose from.

For more information on bone health visit Osteoporosis Australia’s website (see ‘Relevant Links’).