Osteoporosis

In her book, Unbreakable: A Woman’s Guide to Aging With Power, orthopedic surgeon Vonda Wright, MD, explains why estrogen decline can lead to stiff joints, frozen shoulder, and decreased muscle protein synthesis — and why menopause-related muscle loss is not inevitable.

Mounting evidence suggests that osteoporosis is more common — and more serious — in older men than previously thought. But a lack of consensus among public health experts has hampered access to necessary screenings.

Millions of older Americans suffer from osteoporosis, a bone disease that makes them especially vulnerable to fractures. Hormones, diet, and a sedentary lifestyle have long been blamed for the affliction, but recent research points to another culprit: too little sleep.

The digestive benefits of prunes are well documented, but recent research suggests they may also help postmenopausal women maintain healthier bones — if they eat enough of them.