Osteopenia is an increasingly common condition, especially after age 40 and in women. According to studies, the general prevalence of osteopenia is approximately 40.5%, and data show that its frequency increases with age.1
Although it does not always present symptoms, it is an important warning sign for bone health and can be a precursor to osteoporosis.
What is osteopenia?
Osteopenia occurs when bone mineral density is lower than normal but not yet low enough to diagnose osteoporosis. This means that bones begin to lose mass and become more fragile, increasing the risk of fractures in the medium and long term.
It is usually diagnosed by a bone densitometry, a painless test that evaluates bone quality.2
Main causes of osteopenia
Several factors can contribute to the onset of osteopenia:
- Calcium and vitamin D deficiency
- Hormonal changes, especially during menopause
- Sedentary lifestyle or lack of physical exercise
- Diets poor in essential nutrients
- Tobacco and alcohol consumption
- Genetic predisposition
Identifying these factors in time is crucial to slow down bone mass loss.
For people with osteopenia, ensuring adequate calcium intake is key to:
- Maintaining bone density
- Reducing progression to osteoporosis
- Decreasing fracture risk
Although a balanced diet should be the main source of calcium, in many cases it is not enough, and a calcium supplement is needed.
For calcium to be absorbed correctly, adequate vitamin D levels are essential. That is why Savebone® has been formulated with ingredients such as vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium, and phytate, which protects against bone destruction.
Conclusion
Osteopenia is a silent condition, but it is reversible in many cases if detected early. Taking calcium supplements, along with a balanced diet and an active lifestyle, can make a difference in preventing osteoporosis and caring for bone health.
Investing in your bones today is betting on a better quality of life in the future.
References:
*1Fan, Y., Li, Q., Liu, Y., Miao, J., Zhao, T., Cai, J., Liu, M., Cao, J., Xu, H., Wei, L., Li, M., & Shen, C. (2024). Sex- and Age-Specific Prevalence of Osteopenia and Osteoporosis: Sampling Survey. JMIR public health and surveillance, 10, e48947. https://doi.org/10.2196/48947
*2 Varacallo, M. A., Seaman, T. J., Jandu, J. S., & Kaur, J. (2025). Osteopenia. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing.
