Many older Americans lead healthy, interesting, and productive lives well into their later years. But that’s not what we usually hear about.

Osteoporosis causes a loss of bone mass and destruction of bone tissue. The bones most often affected are the hips, spine, and wrists.

Many people are unaware they have osteoporosis until they have advanced symptoms, which may include a broken hip or wrist, low back pain or a hunched back.

The right amount of calcium in your diet helps maintain your bone strength, reducing your risk for osteoporosis.