How to prevent osteoporosis during menopause?

Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become weak and brittle. During menopause, the drop in estrogen levels increases the risk of osteoporosis. To prevent it, you can take several steps: First, ensure adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for bone health. Women over 50 should aim for 1,200 mg of calcium and 800 IU of vitamin D daily. Second, maintain regular exercise, particularly weight-bearing exercises like walking, jogging, and dancing, which strengthen bones. Quitting smoking is also crucial as smoking accelerates bone loss. Additionally, medications such as bisphosphonates and selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) can help prevent osteoporosis. Lastly, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be used under medical supervision but should be considered only when other methods are ineffective.