Drinking and diet
What you eat and drink can affect your risk of falling.
Not drinking enough fluids can lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs) which can make you unsteady on your feet.
Drinking alcohol however, is more likely to cause unsteadiness and increases your risk of falling.
Vitamin D and calcium are important for keeping your bones strong as you get older. Calcium makes your bones strong. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium.
Your body mainly makes Vitamin D from being outdoors in the sunlight or through some food sources. For example;
- dairy foods
- fortified soya products and canned fish
- fortified breakfast cereals
- white bread
- pulses and nuts
You can take Vitamin D supplements but always speak to your GP before you start taking them, or any other over the counter medicines.
What you can do:
- review your diet
- speak to your GP if you think you might need vitamin D supplements
- make sure you drink enough fluids during the day
Resources to help you
- find out how to make healthy eating and drinking part of your everyday life
- find out how your weight affects your health
- visit our alcohol advice webpage if you're concerned that you're drinking too much alcohol
- the National Osteoporosis Society has published a leaflet, Healthy Living for Strong Bones. It explains more about the importance of calcium and vitamin D and helps you choose foods to make sure you're getting the right amount
- Age UK has more information and advice about healthy eating
- visit the NHS website for information about the prevention of osteoporosis.