Health Tips for March 23

Health Tip: Build Healthy Bones

Osteoporosis doesn't have to be an inevitable part of aging -- if you begin practicing healthy habits when you're young.

Here are some facts about osteoporosis, and suggestions to help prevent brittle bones, courtesy of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons:

* Women who are or have been pregnant, who are breast-feeding, or who have had a hysterectomy are more likely to lose bone mass, putting them at higher risk of osteoporosis.
* Women who are menopausal or postmenopausal produce less estrogen than before, which weakens bones.
* Ideally, weight-bearing exercises should begin during the teen years, when the bones grow rapidly.
* It's never too late to start protecting your bones, which may continue to grow throughout your 20s, and even into your early 30s.
* Avoid smoking and excess alcohol, which weaken bones.

Health Tip: Try Cross Training

Cross training involves varying your fitness regimen with a host of different activities.

Here are some benefits of cross training, courtesy of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons:

* Cross training allows you to work your entire body, rather than strengthening just one area.
* A good program includes weight-training exercises (weight lifting, for example), aerobics (stair climbing), and flexibility exercises (yoga).
* Rotating between several types of exercise keeps your routine fresh, fun and prevents boredom.
* Overuse injuries are less likely, since muscles aren't used in the same way all of the time.
* Using muscles throughout the body can help you adapt better to new sports and activities.