Some breast cancer treatments can increase the risk of bone loss, osteoporosis, and fractures. And if the breast cancer has spread to the bones, the risk of fractures rises even more.

However, these effects can be reduced and delayed with proper diet, strength training, and some medications.

Some breast cancer treatments, such as some chemotherapy drugs, aromatase inhibitors, and medications or surgery to stop ovarian function, can result in a higher risk of osteoporosis.

Here are some ways you can help keep your bones strong during breast cancer treatment.

Your doctor might tell you about specific medications that help strengthen the bones during breast cancer treatment.

Some bone‑strengthening exercises are walking, jogging, dancing, hiking, and playing racket sports. Strength and resistance training can also help.

A study published in 2021 showed that a 12‑month exercise program in premenopausal women with early‑stage breast cancer helped prevent bone loss over three years.

To get the best results, try combining strength‑training exercises with aerobics and resistance training 3 to 4 times a week for 30 to 60 minutes.

Vitamin D and calcium are crucial during breast cancer treatment.

According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, the calcium recommendations for women are:

19 to 30 years: 1,000 mg every day.

51 to 70 years: 1,200 mg every day.

600 IU every day, up to age 70.

800 IU every day, after age 70.

You can meet these requirements by eating foods high in calcium and vitamin D or by taking supplements prescribed by your doctor.

A healthy, varied, and balanced diet can help maintain bone health during breast cancer treatment.

In your daily diet, include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, low‑fat dairy products, and protein sources such as chicken, lean meat, eggs, beans, and lentils. And don’t forget to incorporate foods high in omega‑3 fatty acids and vitamin D.

If you smoke, consider quitting, as there is a direct relationship between tobacco use and decreased bone density. Smoking increases the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. What’s more, tobacco makes fractures take longer to heal.

Drinking alcohol can affect bone health and increase the risk of developing osteoporosis, according to a study from 2019. If you drink, consider drinking only 1 glass occasionally.

Getting a bone density test before starting breast cancer treatment and every year during treatment will help your doctor monitor any gradual bone loss.

Some breast cancer treatments, such as some chemotherapy drugs, aromatase inhibitors, and medications or surgery to stop ovarian function, can result in a greater impact and a higher risk of osteoporosis.