When the ovaries stop producing estrogen then menopause is a result. Menopause may start naturally as the ovaries gradually shut down estrogen production or it might occur after the ovaries are surgically removed. When estrogen production is slowed or stopped then the rate of bone loss speeds up considerably. When bone mass is being reduced the risk of osteoporosis is much higher. Less bone is made than lost so bone mass just decreases.

It has been shown that when women take estrogen supplements during menopause they are able to protect their bone mass and reduce the loss of bone mass. This in turn helps protect women against future fractures. The amount of calcium consumed during menopause does not necessarily have anything to do with eh amount of bone loss that occurs. However when women are 60 and older it is important to pay close attention to the amount of calcium being consumed because bone density can be increased at this age. Women who take supplemental calcium in addition to Vitamin D are more likely to reduce their risk of fractures as compared to women who do not take care of themselves.

It is considered safe to take calcium and vitamin D and it helps prevent osteoporosis in both men and women. However, before beginning any type of supplementation it is important to talk with your doctor to ensure there are no counter indications that might exist.

These are just a few of the things you will want to keep in mind before you choose not to supplement with vitamin D and calcium. Also, it’s important to get physical activity as well to help promote strong bones and muscles and to recover and bone mass that might have been lost.

Posted in Menopause

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