It sounded interesting, but I didn’t think too much what exactly it might be about. I was a little surprised joining in to find its focus was actually on osteopenia, osteoporosis and how yoga could help by building bone strength and improving balance to help prevent falls and fractures.

To be honest, I hadn’t given much thought to osteoporosis. I had heard of it, of course, but it seemed like a future concern. However, the workshop reinforced one thing we all know — prevention is important.

Osteopenia is when bone tissue thins and breaks down faster than new bone is made. Osteoporosis is when the bones weaken further and have higher risk for fracture. Osteoporosis is a disease that is silent, painless and often undiagnosed.

Osteoporosis affects two million Canadians, mostly women over 50, though men and younger people can still have it. In people over 50, 80 per cent of fractures are caused by osteoporosis. It can reduce quality of life, self-esteem, independence and mobility.

Risk factors include your age, family history, the decrease of estrogen during menopause, and a slender body frame. People of European and Asian background are also at greater risk. Previous health conditions and medications such as cancer and cancer treatments can increase your risk. Finally, lifestyle factors such as diet choices, physical inactivity, smoking, and drinking on average more three alcoholic beverages per day can affect your risk.

According to Osteoporosis Canada, things you can do to decrease your risk of developing osteoporosis include ensuring that your diet is rich in calcium and vitamin D. If you’re concerned that what you’re eating isn’t giving you enough of these nutrients, they suggest adding a supplement. Getting 2 1/2 hours of moderatevigorous physical activity each week helps to protect your spine, slow the rate of bone loss and build muscle strength which can help prevent falls. Safe exercise that encourages you to work on your balance is also recommended. Along with the other health benefits, eliminating smoking and cutting down on alcohol is good for bone health.

Osteoporosis Canada recommends knowing your risks and talking to your doctor. It also suggests a bone mineral density test for those over 65 every three years, or earlier for those at higher risk.

To learn more visit www.osteoporosis.ca. Participants in my workshop included other yoga teachers and seniors with some level of the disease working to improve their condition. While I went into the workshop not thinking about these things, I am happy to be a little more aware and know that simple steps for improvement can be taken at age.

-Denise Leduc