NEWS & INSIGHTS
The Different Factors that Affect Bone Density

Bone density is a significant indicator of bone health that shows the strength and adaptability of our bones. Many things influence bone density as we grow up, impacting our general well-being and chances for issues such as osteoporosis. At WELL Health Diagnostic Centres, we know how crucial it is to maintain good bone density, and we provide complete tests for bone density. This assists you in tracking and handling your bone health effectively. In the blog, we’ll explore the most important things that impact bone density and explain how you can enhance your bone health.
Understanding the Bone Density Test Procedure
According to the Mayo Clinic, a DEXA scan, or bone density test, is a procedure that does not require cutting into your body. It measures how much minerals like calcium are present in your bones. This test helps doctors find bone density problems and evaluate the possibility of fractures and osteoporosis. When having this test done, you will lie on a table while a small X-ray machine scans through your bones. Usually, it concentrates mainly on the area of your spine and hips. The quick, painless test provides vital information about your bone health.
Bone density test results are given as T-scores, says the National Institute of Health. These scores compare your bone density to that of a healthy young adult. A T-score of -1.0 or higher is considered normal; between -1.0 and -2.5 means low bone mass (osteopenia), while anything lower than -2.5 indicates osteoporosis.
People often ask: why should I know my bone density test result? Well, understanding these results can help find out what causes decreasing bone strength and also guide you on which actions are suitable for maintaining or enhancing your bones’ healthiness.
The Relationship Between Bone Density and Weight
The relationship between bone density and weight is strong, with body weight having a major impact on bone health. More body weight usually means denser bones because they carry the body’s load. This pressure promotes the creation of new bone material. Yet, we must separate healthy weights from excessive ones. Even though moderate weight can boost the strength of bones, obesity might cause complexities detrimental to bone health, such as heightened chances of experiencing bone fractures and other disorders related to density. Read more about the complex relationship between obesity and bone by the National Institute of Health.
On the other hand, having low body weight or losing a lot of weight can cause a lessening in bone strength. People with less weight have less bone mass, which might raise their chances of osteoporosis and fractures. It is essential to keep a good body weight by eating balanced meals and exercising regularly to support the density of bones and overall skeletal health.
What is a Bad Bone Density Score?
Knowing about a bad bone density score is fundamental to taking care of and enhancing bone health. As stated before, the bone density scores are shown as T-scores. If your T-score is -2.5 or less, this indicates osteoporosis, which means having weak bones that can easily break (fracture). This result shows that your bone density is much less than the standard bone density of a typical young adult. You need to see a doctor for medical attention and intervention.
A T-score in the range of -1.0 to -2.5 shows osteopenia, which acts as a forerunner to osteoporosis, according to Orthoinfo. Although not as critical as osteoporosis, it still signifies less bone mass than usual and suggests adjustments in lifestyle plus potential medical intervention to stop further loss of bone density. Doing bone density tests on a regular basis can help keep track of alterations in the density of bones and evaluate how well efforts to enhance their strength are working.
Ways of Increasing Bone Density After the Age of 60
It is harder to keep bone density up or increase it when we get older, but this doesn’t mean it’s impossible, says the Mayo Clinic. Once you are past 60 years old, you need to focus on methods that can boost your bones and enhance bone density. Here is a list of ways to improve bone density in later life:
- Nutrition: Calcium and vitamin D are important for strengthening our bones. We find calcium in dairy products, green leafy vegetables, and foods that have been fortified with it. Vitamin D can be obtained from sunshine, fatty fish, or supplements.
- Exercise: To make your bones dense, do exercises that carry or resist weight. These include walking, jogging, lifting weights, and yoga. Regular physical activity helps build up bone strength by making them grow more cells. It also enhances the power of muscles and balance, which lessens the danger of falling (Mayo Clinic Staff).
- Medications: Doctors can prescribe drugs that help reduce the speed of bone loss or enhance the formation of bones. These drugs might be bisphosphonates, hormone therapy, and other treatments to prevent osteoporosis. You should talk with your healthcare provider about what is best for you.
- Lifestyle Changes: Stopping smoking and limiting alcohol can have a significant effect on bone health. Smoking damages bones, making them more likely to break. According to Heathline, excessive alcohol use can also cause bone loss and increase fracture risk. Living a good lifestyle with balanced food and normal body activities is necessary for keeping strong bones.
- Supplements: In addition to eating certain foods, you may also need to take calcium and vitamin D supplements. These can help compensate for any lack in your daily nutrition. Remember, talking with your healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement routine is important.
By combining proper nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle changes, you can increase your bone density even if you are over 60. Concentrating on these factors can enhance the strength of your bones and lower your chances of osteoporosis and fractures.
Knowing the elements that impact bone density is critical. At WELL Health Diagnostic Centres, we are committed to helping you keep track of and handle your bone health using our top-rated bone density test services. If you are worried about your bone density or want to know more about increasing it, contact us now for a consultation appointment. Our group of skilled specialists is ready to assist you in obtaining the best bone condition.