Understanding bone health, hormones and more
You’ve probably heard of osteoporosis, but realistically, it’s not a condition that gets the attention it deserves. While we’re constantly bombarded with messages about heart health and cancer prevention, osteoporosis remains a silent thief, weakening bones until the first fracture strikes.
As we mark World Osteoporosis Day on 20 October 2025, we’re not just raising awareness; we’re leading a mini rebellion. We’re taking a stand against the passive acceptance of bone fragility. Why does our healthcare system, despite having the knowledge and tools to identify and treat this disease, allow it to go vastly undiagnosed?
The International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) states that osteoporosis affects more than 500 million people worldwide. A staggering one in three women and one in five men over the age of 50 will suffer an osteoporotic fracture in their lifetime, yet up to 80% of those who fracture are never identified or treated for the underlying condition.
Fragility fractures due to osteoporosis can be devastating, leading to:
● Chronic pain and disability
● Loss of independence
● Increased risk of further fractures
● Premature death
We believe your health is important. You have the right to demand more, to ask the difficult questions and to take proactive control of your wellbeing. In this article, we’re going to take you through what osteoporosis is, how it can be treated, what you can do to improve your bone health and how hormone testing could be the answer.
Let’s dive in.
What is osteoporosis?
Your bones aren’t really solid structures. Think of them as a bustling city in constant flux, with teams of builders and demolition crews working around the clock. Osteoporosis is
when the demolition crews work faster than the builders, leaving your bones porous, brittle and vulnerable to fractures from a minor fall or even a sudden movement.
Unfortunately, there are often no early symptoms of osteoporosis. You might not know you have it until you suffer a fracture, which is why understanding your risk factors is so crucial. The IOF offers a simple one-minute risk check that can be a powerful first step in your journey to bone health: https://riskcheck.osteoporosis.foundation
Three steps to bone health
It’s time to embrace a holistic and honest approach to building stronger bones for life. Here are four ways you can help boost your bone health.
1. Hormones: the unsung heroes
This is a big one, and often the most overlooked. Hormones are the master conductors of your body, and their balance is critical for bone density. Research shows just how vital they are:
● Oestrogen – this hormone plays a huge role in the growth and maturation of bone as well as in the regulation of bone turnover, which prevents bone breakdown. When women go through menopause, their oestrogen levels plummet, which is a key reason they are at a higher fracture risk.
● Testosterone – while primarily associated with men, testosterone in both sexes helps build and maintain bone mass.
The bottom line? If your hormones are out of balance, your bones could be paying the price. This is why a hormone test isn’t just for fertility or mood; it’s a critical tool for understanding your skeletal health. It’s about getting to the root of the osteoporosis causes, not just treating the symptoms.
2. The power trio: calcium, vitamin D and K2
Yes, calcium is important. It’s the primary building block of your bones. But it’s not a magic bullet. For it to work, it needs its partners.
● Vitamin D – the essential “key” that unlocks the door for calcium to enter your bloodstream from your gut. When you consume calcium, it sits in your intestines and can’t be absorbed on its own. Your body needs vitamin D to create a hormone that signals the intestines to actively pull that calcium in. Without sufficient amounts, most of the calcium you consume, whether from food or supplements, will simply pass through your system and be wasted.
● Vitamin K2 – Once calcium has been absorbed into your bloodstream with the help of vitamin D, it needs to be directed to the right place. This is where vitamin K2 comes in. Its primary job is to activate specific proteins, like osteocalcin, which guide calcium to your bones and teeth, where it is needed to build and maintain bone density. At the same time, vitamin K2 activates another protein that prevents calcium from being deposited in soft tissues, such as your arteries. This prevents arterial calcification, which can contribute to heart disease. Essentially, without enough vitamin K2, the calcium you’ve absorbed could end up in places it shouldn’t be, potentially causing health problems instead of strengthening your bones.
By focusing on a well-rounded diet for bone health and smart bone-strengthening supplements, you’re taking a huge step towards healthy ageing.
3. Fuel your body with bone-boosting foods
You can’t build a fortress without the right materials. Your bones are no different. Here are some of the best foods to include in your diet for bone health:
Calcium-rich foods
Don’t just rely on dairy. Leafy greens like kale and broccoli are fantastic sources, as are sardines, fortified tofu and almonds.
Vitamin D-rich foods
While sunshine is our primary source, you can also get this crucial vitamin from fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, egg yolks and fortified foods like some cereals and milk.
Protein
Your bones are roughly 50% protein by volume, so a lack of it can hinder bone formation. Include lean meats, fish, beans, lentils and nuts in your diet to provide the necessary building blocks for bone strength.
Magnesium and potassium
These minerals play a supporting role in bone metabolism. Find them in nuts, seeds, whole grains and a wide variety of fruits and vegetables.
Eating a wholesome and varied diet plays a huge role when it comes to osteoporosis remedies and osteoporosis treatment.
4. Move your bones (think beyond running)
Your bones need a challenge to stay strong. Scientific studies show that weight-bearing exercise and strength training are essential for bone strength.
How Being Well Pharmacy supports your wellbeing journey
At Being Well Pharmacy, we’re not just here to dispense prescriptions. We’re here for the relationships, for the support and for the smile on your face when you finally take control of your holistic wellbeing.
As a pioneering Brighton pharmacy, we offer a unique blend of traditional pharmacy services, specialist consultations and holistic therapies covering areas like weight management, hormones, gut health, skin care and overall lifestyle and wellness. We can assess your individual situation and advise if a hormone test might be beneficial for you.
Book a free consultation today to discuss your bone health or receive personalised supplement advice at your local Being Well Pharmacy in Brighton and Hove.