HEALTHY BODY WEIGHT
It's important to maintain a healthy body weight. Being underweight, with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of less than 19 kg/m2 (or 19 lbs/in2) is a risk factor for osteoporosis.
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It's been shown that frail elderly people, who may have reduced appetites, are at higher risk of breaking a bone. Many older adults, especially if they live alone, may stop cooking healthy, balanced meals and end up having malnutrition without knowing it! Poor protein intake is often related to undernutrition and can rob the muscles of strength, which increases the risk of falls, as well as contributing to poor recovery if you’ve had a fracture. Read about Protein
Eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa can also lead to osteoporosis. In girls and women, being underweight may result in lower estrogen levels and this then increases the risk of osteoporosis (similar to after menopause).
Athletes who over-exercise while not getting enough calories, known as Relative Energy Deficiency (RED), are also at risk of damaging their bone health.
No matter what your age, a healthy body weight benefits your bone health and overall wellbeing
CELIAC DISEASE AND OTHER DISORDERS THAT AFFECT NUTRITIONAL STATUS
Many people with celiac disease have lower BMI. In fact, diseases of the gastrointestinal system that affect nutrient absorption, which include inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn’s disease and colitis) as well as celiac disease, can place you at increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures. If you have these disorders you need to ensure an adequate intake of calcium (1,000 mg/day) and vitamin D. It is recommended that you have your nutrient status checked as you may need supplements.