
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.