5 things you can do now to keep your bones strong

1. Maintain a healthy weight.  Being too thin has been linked to a higher risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
2. Exercise. Choose weight-bearing activities like hiking or tennis, or use an elliptical machine or treadmill.
3. Don't smoke. Chemicals in cigarette smoke are bad for bone cells and make it harder for the body to make new bone. 
4. Get enough calcium and vitamin D. The recommended daily intake is 1000 milligrams of calcium for women 50 and under and men under 71; 1,200 mg for those who are older.  Aim for 600 IU of vitamin D daily (800 IU if you’re over 70).
5. Go easy on the alcohol, caffeine, protein and sodium.  When consumed in excess, they are thought to interfere with the body's ability to retain calcium or form new bone. 

5 things you can do now to keep your bones strong