Dr Taher Mahmud
Rheumatology

5 ways you can help prevent osteoporosis

Written by: Dr Taher Mahmud

Published: 03/11/2017 | Updated: 13/11/2023

Edited by: Emily Lawrenson

In the UK, 1 in 2 women and 1 in 4 men over the age of 50 are estimated to suffer from osteoporosis. The good news, however, is that osteoporosis is both treatable and preventable. Prevention starts with you, and there are small lifestyle changes you can make to reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis.

Expert rheumatologist Dr Taher Mahmud gives us five simple tips on how we can help in the fight against osteoporosis and bone weakness.

In order to promote bone growth and keep your bones healthy, it is important to get enough calcium, vitamin D and other nutrients. If you are lactose intolerant, it may be difficult to get enough calcium from food alone. Try eat more leafy greens such as kale or cabbage, or snack on nuts like almonds as a healthy top-up throughout the day.
Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, which does not just benefit your bone health, but your health overall.
Bones can be made stronger through exercise, so at least two and a half hours a week is recommended for their strength.
Smoking is connected to bone health - cigarettes contribute to bone loss, and smoking can reduce levels of calcium absorption. If you need support or help to give up smoking, ask your healthcare provider or GP. Excess alcohol consumption can also reduce levels of calcium absorption.
In order to check your bone density and overall bone health, tests can be made, meaning you can have an idea of your situation and if you need to take action. Ask your healthcare provider when you can take a bone density test or scan.

If you would like to book a consultation with Dr Mahmud, do not hesitate to do so by visiting his Top Doctors profile today.

By Dr Taher Mahmud

Rheumatology in London

Dr Taher Mahmud is a distinguished consultant rheumatologist based in central London and Tunbridge Wells. He is renowned for his expertise in osteoporosis, osteopenia, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and inflammatory arthritis. Dr Mahmud qualified in medicine from King's College London before undertaking training at various esteemed institutions including St Thomas', and Pembury Hospitals. He also completed an esteemed research fellowship at King&rsq...

By Dr Taher Mahmud
Rheumatology

Dr Taher Mahmud is a distinguished consultant rheumatologist based in central London and Tunbridge Wells. He is renowned for his expertise in osteoporosis, osteopenia, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and inflammatory arthritis.

Dr Mahmud qualified in medicine from King's College London before undertaking training at various esteemed institutions including St Thomas', and Pembury Hospitals. He also completed an esteemed research fellowship at King’s College Hospital, also gaining an MD and a Master’s in biochemistry. He further honed his skills in rheumatology through specialist training at King's College, the Lupus Unit at St Thomas', and Guy's Hospital Rheumatology Units. Dr Mahmud has served as a consultant rheumatologist since 2000, and was awarded fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians in 2014. Boasting more than 30 years of experience, Dr Mahmud has held various prominent roles throughout his career, including as cofounder and clinical lead for osteoporosis at the London Osteoporosis Clinic, and has also received a Clinical Excellence Award in recognition of his excellence and dedication to his practice. He currently sees private patients at HCA UK, The Shard and 25 Harley Street.

Additional to his clinical practice, Dr Mahmud has held a number of esteemed positions in public associations throughout his career, with a particular focus on improving patient experience and outcomes, including as a member of the MTW Patient Experience Committee and as an organiser and chair of conferences on patient experience at the Royal Society of Medicine. In recognition of his commitment to drive improvement in this area, he was awarded an NHS Innovations award for patient feedback. He has also been actively involved in medical education throughout his career, having lectured and trained a wide range of medical students and fellow practitioners.

With a wealth of expertise and experience, Dr Mahmud continues to make significant contributions to the field of rheumatology. He has appeared in numerous peer-reviewed publications and has authored his own book on the subject of patient care and feedback. Dr Mahmud is passionate about raising awareness of the prevention of osteoporosis fractures and maintaining healthy bones. He has appeared on several podcasts as an expert speaker on bone health and osteoporosis and the menopause. Dr Mahmud is also a member of various professional organisations, including the American College of Rheumatology, British Medical Association, British Society of Rheumatology, General Medical Council and the Royal Society of Medicine.

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