A diagnosis of osteoporosis is frightening if you don't know about it. Low bone density and fragile bones are hallmarks of this disease; you need to take extra care not to fall or otherwise risk breaking your bones. Luckily, the disease can be managed with attention to the following adjustments in your life.

Get More Vitamin D

There are some studies that indicate a deficiency of Vitamin D could contribute to your osteoporosis. Raising levels can strengthen the bones you've got. Your doctor can test levels in your blood so you know if you need more. You can boost vitamin levels by getting out in the sun, drinking milk fortified with the vitamin and using supplements. Notify your doctor about your efforts to raise your levels so that they can monitor your actions.

Add Calcium

Calcium is a mineral that you're also going to need if you've got osteoporosis. Calcium is responsible for building and supporting bones and can be consumed by adding foods to your diet such as:

• Milk
• Yogurt
• Cheese
• Broccoli
• Almonds
• Oranges

Calcium can also be supplemented with tablets, but as with any Vitamin D, alert your doctor so they can ensure calcium levels don't get too high or cause another problem.

Stop Smoking

Cigarettes are problematic for many of your body systems and your bones are no different. The tobacco in them can be particularly troublesome for you when osteoporosis is a concern. Tobacco affects blood circulation, which means that you won't be able to adequately create vibrant, new bone cells. It may also affect the way your body responds to calcium. Start working on lowering the tobacco you're consuming so that your body is better able to support your bones.

Lower Caffeine Consumption

You may love having coffee to start your morning or drink soda throughout each day, but caffeine could be a problem with this disease. That's because the caffeine they contain has an effect on the way your body absorbs the calcium you so desperately need. You might not have to completely eliminate caffeine altogether, but cut down and see how that affects your bones over time.

Osteoporosis is managed best when you have a deep understanding of the condition and know what you can do to prevent problems. You might also discuss postmenopausal injections and other treatments with your physician so you can fight the disease on as many fronts as you can.

Contact a medical center like Radius for more information and assistance.