One in 2 American women and 1 in 4 men older than age 50 break a bone due to osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis causes bones to become weak. Weak bones can break from even mild stresses, such as bending over or coughing.

Building strong bones, especially before age 30, can keep you from getting osteoporosis later in life. To build strong bones, you need a healthy diet. Sodas contain chemicals that can make bones weaker. Young people should drink low-fat milk and orange juice with calcium instead.

These healthy habits keep bones strong, no matter your age:

• Exercise regularly. Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking or weight training, can help maintain and build bone strength.
• Get plenty of calcium and vitamin D. Foods like yogurt, figs, almonds, and broccoli are high in calcium and vitamins.
• Don’t smoke. Smoking keeps your bones from absorbing calcium.