
8. Having a Family Member with Osteoporosis Also Increases Risk
As with many other diseases, having a family member with osteoporosis dramatically increases your risk, whether or not you have any other risk factors. If you have more than one relative with osteoporosis, consider yourself very high risk (via Mayo Clinic). You will want to begin regular bone screenings early, so make sure you let your doctor know about your family history. You will also want to prioritize your bone health, so follow the recommendations made in this article. Ensure that you get enough calcium and vitamin D, and nix the caffeine and sugar, which can leach calcium from your bones (via U of M). Reduce or otherwise eliminate red meat from your diet, and limit foods that may be nutrient-dense but prevent the absorption of calcium and vitamin D.