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Osteoporosis is a common bone disorder, affecting mostly women after menopause. It is a condition in which the bone becomes weak and more prone to fractures. The bone mineral density or the BMD is lowered in osteoporosis.

Are you at risk for osteoporosis? Check out the 10 important risk factors below:

Medicines: You are at risk for developing this bone disorder if you are on steroids, diazepam or anticonvulsants. These medicines cause tissue breakdown, decrease the androgen and estrogen levels and also interfere with calcium absorption.
Smoking: If you are a chain smoker, chances are that you will develop osteoporosis at an early age. Smoking decreases the hormone levels pre-maturely.
Alcohol: You are at risk if you consume more than one alcoholic drink per day. Alcohol affects the bone cells and their ability to make new bone and remodel the old ones is significantly reduced.
Tall stature: Women who are very tall or thin are at higher risk for developing osteoporosis. Due to lack of fat in the body, less estrogen is produced.
Immobility: Due to any medical or surgical condition is a potential risk factor for osteoporosis.
Sedentary lifestyle: People who are not on their feet for at least four hours a day are definitely at risk for this bone disorder. Bones remain healthy when vertical force is applied on them directly. You need to exercise if you wish to have healthy bones.
Emotional factors: Depression is also a risk factor for osteoporosis. There is an increased production of a chemical in patients suffering from depressions which is responsible for the bone breakdown.
Excessive consumption of caffeine: Drinking more than two cups of coffee every day can prove to be dangerous for your bones. Urinary excretion of calcium is increased which leads to weakening of the bones.
Thyroid disorders: The thyroid is over active in patients suffering from Hyperthyroidism. Thyroid stimulates the bone cells for bone breakdown. Same affect is also seen in hypothyroid patients who take medications for an under active thyroid gland.
Junk food: Bone health will deteriorate if your diet doesn’t contain green leafy vegetables and fruits. So eat healthy and avoid eating junk food if you want your bones to stay healthy.