Probably the most important factor in preventing osteoporosis is making sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D (which helps you absorb calcium). This is important throughout your life, not just when bone density starts to decline after age 30 or so. In fact, it is most important when the body’s demand for calcium is greatest including childhood, adolescence, during pregnancy, and breast-feeding.

Other things you can do to prevent osteoporosis include:

• Get enough exercise.
• Add soy to your diet.
• Don’t smoke.
• Consider hormone therapy if you are post-menopausal.
• Limit alcohol intake.
• Avoid excessive caffeine consumption.