Osteoporosis is a condition that makes bones weaker and more fragile, increasing the risk of fractures. The word itself means “porous bone,” and that’s exactly what happens. Under a microscope, healthy bone appears honeycomb-like, dense and well-structured, while osteoporotic bone looks thinner and full of tiny holes.
Bone may seem solid and unchanging, but it’s actually a living tissue that’s constantly being broken down and rebuilt. In our younger years, new bone forms faster than it breaks down, helping bones grow stronger and denser. But as we age, especially after menopause, bone loss can begin to outpace bone formation. Over time, this leads to a gradual loss of bone mass and strength.
Osteoporosis is often referred to as the “silent killer” because it develops silently over time without symptoms. Most women don’t realize their bones have weakened until they experience a low-impact fracture or go in for their first DEXA scan at 65.
Doctors may recommend jumping straight to a medication, or they may suggest supplementing with calcium and vitamin D. While both calcium and vitamin D are important for bones, supplement recommendations should be individualized, and there is often far more to the story. Nutrition, hormones, physical activity, stress, sleep, and even gut health all play a role in how our bones are built and maintained. Prevention and early awareness can go a long way, but remember, bone is living tissue. That means our bones can respond positively to lifestyle changes at any age.