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How do hormones affect bone health and osteoporosis risk?

Bone is a living tissue that constantly remodels itself. Hormones are key regulators of this process.

Estrogen: Protects against bone loss by slowing bone breakdown. After menopause, estrogen levels drop sharply, increasing fracture risk.

Testosterone: Supports bone strength in men. A gradual decline with age can weaken skeletal structure.

Thyroid hormones: Both excess and deficiency can disrupt bone turnover, leading to brittle bones.
Cortisol: Chronically high cortisol (from stress or steroid use) accelerates bone loss.

What helps:
Lifestyle: Resistance training, weight‑bearing exercise, and balance training reduce fracture risk.

Nutrition: Adequate calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, and protein are essential.
Medical support: Hormone replacement therapy, thyroid optimisation, or osteoporosis medications may be recommended depending on individual risk.