Besides pharmacotherapy, which two components are key to osteoporosis prevention?

• A. Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake and weight-bearing exercise
• B. Iron supplementation and hydration
• C. Vitamin C intake and rest
• D. Low-sodium diet and aerobic exercise

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that osteoporosis prevention relies on giving bones the nutrients they need and providing the mechanical stimulus to build and preserve bone. Calcium supplies the mineral that bones are made of, and vitamin D ensures that calcium is absorbed properly, supporting bone formation and maintenance. Pairing that with regular weight-bearing exercise—like walking, jogging, or strength training—stresses the bones in a way that encourages osteoblast activity and strengthens bone density. Together, adequate calcium and vitamin D intake plus weight-bearing exercise form the strongest nonpharmacologic foundation for preventing osteoporosis.

Other choices don’t target bone mineralization and mechanical loading as directly. Iron and hydration don’t directly boost bone density; vitamin C, rest, and aerobic exercise alone don’t provide the same targeted effect on bone mass.