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An estimated 10 million Americans have osteoporosis, AKA brittle bone disease. The disease, caused by a combination of hormonal, genetic and lifestyle conditions (lack of estrogen, not doing weight-bearing exercises and an excess of smoking and alcohol) accounts for 2 million bone fractures annually.

But that's not all osteoporosis can break. According to a study in Bone Research, osteoporosis is linked to an 80% increase in the risk of dementia!

There's an intrinsic biological connection between bone and brain health. Bone and muscle proteins and hormones can cross the blood-brain barrier and promote neuron growth and neurotransmitter production. But if that flow is reduced or blocked (often because of self-damaging lifestyle choices), the communication pathway between bone and brain is reduced and cognition suffers.

To prevent osteoporosis -- and protect your brain -- it's essential to get weight-bearing exercise at least twice a week for 20-30 minutes. You can use your own body weight, hand weights, barbells or weight machines at the gym. Walking (aim for 10,000 steps daily) counts, too!

A diet rich in bone-building calcium and vitamin D is also a top priority. Foods loaded with calcium include non- or low-fat dairy; tofu and soy beans; dark, leafy greens like kale and spinach; and canned salmon, anchovies and herring (it's the bones!). Vitamin D is found in salmon, sardines, mushrooms and fortified cereals (sugar-free please!) and plant-based milks. Ask your doc if you need to take vitamin D supplements, too. For more nutritional advice, check out my book "What to Eat When."

Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.

(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.

Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.