Nutiritionist...dexa skan--osteopenia...what is best to eat? to do?

Hi, I am 57, rny 2 years ago, lost about 160 lbs and am holding. I walk 1-2 miles per day, get 1200 mg calc citrate, plus more in cheese, yogurt, milk.... Dexa scan gave me a score that is borderline for needing supplementation with fosomax or other med.  Doctor wants to wait a year, up calcium and exercise, then see.... What are your thoughts about the medication, foods I should focus on, avoid...how much walking should I do...feels like I already walk a lot... Also I am sad and discouraged that after all this work I have thinning bones in my hips, not osteoporosis, but still.....I feel tempted to overeat, like "what the heck?!"  I know that is is not the way to look at it, but I am sad and discouraged.... Thanks for any information... Betty

Hi, Betty, I'll allow the dieticians to comment on food choices to bump up calcium, but I'd like to offer an exercise suggestion.  First, keep up the walking - it's great for you.  But would you be able to add some strength training to your routine?  Strength training puts moderate stress on your bones, which actually helps improve bone density.  Here's a link to an article that provides some information:  http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/strength-training/HQ01710 Here's a link to another good article about osteoporosis and physical activity - http://www.simplefitnesssolutions.com/articles/osteoporosis% 20.htm If you're interested in pursuing this but not sure where to learn proper form, technique, etc., you may want to look for DVDs at your local library.   Good luck on your continuing journey -  Kellie

Betty,   Don't give up & overeat -   this may not be related to wls.   I had osteoporosis before wls and My Mom has is & has never been overweight.  The good news is that Calcium supplements with Vitamin D and weight bearing exercises can really help improve the bone density.   My recent dexa scan showed an improvement in bone density over the scan 3 years ago when I began calcium/Vit D supplements and Fosamax.    By the way, have you ever visited the "WLS In Your 50's and Over" Forum?   This and other subjects of interest to those of us over 50 are often discussed, with much info available.    Plus, the people there are really great & supportive.   Please consider this you invite to join us.  Here's a link: http://www.obesityhelp.com/forums/over_50/  Don't be sad or discouraged - just take the appropriate action & you'll be fine!