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By Gene Turner, MD, FAARFM
Every May, National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month shines a spotlight on one of the most common yet underdiagnosed conditions affecting older adults. At Mid-Florida Age Management, we believe that protecting your bones is one of the most important investments you can make in your long-term health, independence, and quality of life.
What Is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become weak, brittle, and porous — increasing the risk of fractures from everyday activities like bending, lifting, or even a minor fall. Often called the “silent disease,” it typically progresses without noticeable symptoms until a fracture occurs.
According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, approximately 10 million Americans have osteoporosis, and another 44 million have low bone density — putting them at elevated risk. Postmenopausal women are disproportionately affected, but men are not immune. In fact, roughly one in four men over age 50 will experience an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime.
Why Bone Health Matters More as We Age
Our bones reach their peak density in our late 20s. After that, bone loss begins to outpace bone formation — a process that accelerates significantly in women after menopause due to falling estrogen levels, and in men as testosterone gradually declines with age. Left unaddressed, this imbalance leads to the gradual weakening we know as osteoporosis.
A hip fracture, one of the most serious consequences of osteoporosis, can result in hospitalization, long-term disability, and a significant loss of independence. This is why early awareness and prevention are so critical.
Know Your Risk Factors
Some risk factors are beyond your control — age, gender, family history, and body frame size all play a role. However, many contributing factors are modifiable:
• Low dietary calcium and vitamin D intake
• Physical inactivity or a sedentary lifestyle
• Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
• Hormonal imbalances, including low estrogen or testosterone
• Long-term use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids
• Eating disorders or conditions that impair nutrient absorption
“Osteoporosis is largely preventable — and even manageable once diagnosed. The key is not waiting for a fracture to take action.”
Prevention: Building and Preserving Bone Density
The good news is that steps taken at any age can help protect and even strengthen your bones. Our team at Mid-Florida Age Management recommends a comprehensive approach:
Nutrition: Calcium and vitamin D are the building blocks of bone health. Adults over 50 should aim for 1,200 mg of calcium daily through dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods, alongside adequate vitamin D to support absorption.
Exercise: Weight-bearing activities — walking, hiking, dancing, and resistance training — stimulate bone formation and improve balance, reducing fall risk. Aim for at least 30 minutes of weight-bearing exercise most days of the week.
Hormone Balance: Hormonal shifts are a primary driver of bone loss. At Mid-Florida Age Management, we assess each patient’s hormonal health and, where appropriate, discuss evidence-based options including hormone optimization therapy to help preserve bone density and overall vitality.
Bone Density Screening: A DEXA scan is a quick, painless test that measures bone mineral density. Women should begin screening at age 65, and earlier if risk factors are present. Men should discuss screening with their provider by age 70.
Take Action This May
National Osteoporosis Awareness Month is the perfect time to schedule a bone health assessment. If you haven’t had your bone density checked — or if you’re concerned about fracture risk, hormonal changes, or joint health — our team at Mid-Florida Age Management is here to guide you with personalized, integrative care.
Strong bones support everything you love to do. Don’t wait for a fracture to start the conversation. Contact us today to take the first step toward lifelong skeletal health.
About the Author
“Gene” Turner, MD is a board-certified physician, advanced fellowship-trained in Regenerative and Functional Medicine and a diplomate of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, with over 25 years of clinical experience. Dr. Turner graduated from the University of Arizona College of Medicine and received residency training at Vanderbilt University. He is the medical director of Mid-Florida Age Management.
Your wellness doctor in Ocala is Board Certified by the American Board of Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine and is fellowship trained in Metabolic and Nutritional Medicine. He has also received certification as Therapeutic Lifestyle Practitioner through Metagenics FirstLine Lifestyle Medicine Program. The CDC and NIH recommend Lifestyle Treatment Programs for such lifestyle conditions such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, poor glucose control and overweight. Such programs require time and expertise to develop and implement: our programs include addressing diet, exercise, stress management, sleep issues, nutritional supplementation where indicated and correction of metabolic deficits when detected. Evidence-based programs are used to assess, interpret, and recommend proven integrative protocols which dramatically increase patient adherence and engagement level. The effect is a symbiotic relationship between practitioner and patient, resulting in patient centered care and higher levels of wellness.
Dr. Turner uses conventional, nutritional, complementary and alternative modalities. He specializes in hypertension, lipid disorders, prevention of cardiovascular disease, nutritional and weight management, and clinical age management. He has a special interest in anti-aging medicine for which he uses a combination of natural and prescriptive therapies.
352-629-3311
www.mid-florida-medical.com
1630 SE 18t Street, Suite 202, Ocala, FL 34471
