The Doc Replies

Our expert answers your medical questions

forms of exercise are weight-bearing and resistance. Weight-bearing exercise forces you to work against gravity. It’s better if you add impact, such as jumping or star jumps, but always check with your GP before doing high-impact exercise. Walking is generally fine.

Resistance exercises, like lifting weights or using resistance bands, help to strengthen bones. Building muscle strength will protect your joints but be careful when twisting at the waist as it can increases the risk of compression fractures.

Why is vitamin D good for you?

Vitamin D regulates calcium and phosphate in the body to help keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy. A lack will lead to rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults, which causes bone pain and fragility. You get vitamin D through sun exposure and your diet. Oily fish, like salmon, tuna and sardines, is the best source, as well as dairy products, egg yolks and fortified cereals. I recommend everyone in Scotland take a vitamin D supplement in winter as we have less exposure to sunlight.

The Doc Replies

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