Use it or lose it. Bones build up in response to physical stress and break down when stress is no longer there. Regular weight-bearing exercise along with good nutrition builds bones and makes them stronger. In fact, by comparing the activity questionnaires of 580 postmenopausal women to their bone mineral density measurements, a group of researchers in England found stair-climbing and walking briskly were significantly linked with higher bone mineral densities in the hip as well as the entire skeleton.¹

These activities protect bone mass when accompanied by an adequate intake of bone-building nutrients. Exercise also increases muscle strength, balance, coordination and flexibility, and thus helps prevent falls that can result in fractures.

References

1. Coupland CA, et al.
Habitual physical activity and bone mineral density in postmenopausal women in England.
Int J Epidemiol 1999;4(2):241-6.