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Blog | Alto Pharmacy

There’s something to be said for the mentality of “age is just a number,” but it’s a fact that our minds and bodies change with time, and new health considerations arise as we grow older.

A Guide to Healthy Aging

Healthy aging, which encompasses your physical, emotional, and cognitive wellness, is a journey rather than a destination. While it requires an ongoing investment in your well-being, small steps and everyday choices can make a big impact. Here’s what to prioritize.

Access to primary care is a challenge in the US, and 40% of US adults report delaying or going without care due to financial barriers. Skipping a routine screening can be serious: according to the CDC, up to 40% of all fatalities linked to the five leading causes of death in the U.S. — heart disease, cancer, chronic lower respiratory diseases, stroke, and unintentional injuries — are preventable.

Since your risk for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, and other common conditions increases as you grow older, staying on track with preventative care is a key component of healthy aging. If you have been diagnosed with any of these conditions or another chronic illness, attending regular doctor’s appointments is also critical to feeling your best.

If you smoke, quitting is one of the most important steps you can take to maintain good health as you grow older. It’s never too late (or too early) to drop the habit: quitting smoking at any age can lower your risk for cancer, heart attack, stroke, and lung disease.

If you’re having difficulty, don’t be discouraged. It often takes multiple attempts to stop smoking for good. Ask your doctor for resources to support your efforts.

Regular physical activity is fundamental to heart-healthy living and to healthy aging. Not only can consistent exercise increase life expectancy, it is also correlated with a better quality of life and less physical discomfort.

Health experts recommend a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical exercise and two days of muscle-strengthening activities each week. The latter is very important for older adults, as muscle mass naturally declines as you age.

Remember that some physical activity is better than none, and you can break up your weekly exercise hours into smaller chunks that feel more manageable. Find additional tips on developing a fitness routine that works for you here.

More than 1 in 3 US adults report getting less than the recommended seven hours of sleep per night. There are several ways that the process of aging can interfere with a good night’s sleep:

Aging-related changes to your brain chemistry affect your circadian rhythms — the 24-hour cycles that control your body’s internal clock and regulate your mood, hunger, and sleep.

Changes in hormone production, like decreased melatonin levels, can also disrupt sleep as you grow older.

Some of the health diseases that are more common in older adults, like heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis, can contribute to poor sleep.

Aging-related lifestyle changes — for example, a less structured routine in retirement — can also result in more difficulty sleeping.

Simple steps can help improve sleep health. Start with the following:

Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, including weekends.

Avoid the use of electronic devices close to bedtime.

Get plenty of natural light and stay physically active during the day, but avoid exercising close to bedtime.

Avoid consuming food or beverages close to bedtime, particularly caffeine, alcohol, and high-sugar or high-fat foods.

Keep your bedroom dark and quiet and maintain a comfortable temperature.

As you prioritize healthy aging, be sure to give your mental well-being plenty of attention. Many age-related physical changes — including the loss of vision and hearing and changes in memory and mobility — can make it challenging to maintain strong social ties. For this reason, older adults face an increased risk of isolation and loneliness.

Good mental health is important in and of itself — after all, each one of us deserves to experience fulfillment at every stage of life. But there are also physical and cognitive benefits of maintaining positive relationships as you age. Loneliness is associated with a greater risk for dementia, and strong, meaningful social connections are linked to better physical health.

To enjoy the later chapters of life — and to support your cognitive and cardiovascular health — stay connected to friends and loved ones, seek community in various forms, and look for opportunities to give back. Remember that small acts of connection go far — and that four-legged companions count too. (We’re serious — having a pet is good for those cholesterol and blood pressure numbers!)

Choose a reliable and flexible pharmacy partner

Alto Pharmacy makes it simple to live your healthiest life by providing an easier, more supportive, and more affordable prescription experience. Our pharmacists are here with information and answers, even during nights and weekends. And the Alto app gives you control and convenience in managing your medications, with auto refills, medication bundling, and custom dosing reminders.

This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

From strengthening your heart to promoting better sleep, regular exercise offers a number of physical and mental health benefits. But getting up and moving can be easier said than done. Here are some suggestions for building a fitness routine that sticks.

How to Start and Stick to a Fitness Routine

No one is immune to the physical and mental benefits of exercise. Beyond helping to manage a wide range of health conditions — from hypertension and diabetes to COPD and anxiety disorders — regular physical activity strengthens cardiovascular health, supports healthy sleep patterns, and lowers your risk for many preventable diseases.

But while there are many reasons to exercise, getting up and moving is often easier said than done. Less than 5% of US adults get 150 minutes of weekly exercise — the minimum suggested by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. And up to 65% of all those who begin a fitness program don’t continue it beyond the 3-6 month window, according to the New York Times.

Whether you’re trying to get back in the swing of a fitness routine or struggling to carve out time for your favorite workout, use the suggestions below to build an exercise plan that sustains you for the long haul.

On those days when life gets in the way of sticking to your routine, it’s easier to stay committed if you have a clear reason to prioritize exercise.

While the benefits of physical activity are universal, motivation looks different for everyone. Perhaps you’re navigating a recent diagnosis of a chronic condition or proactively taking care of your mental health. Whatever your reason may be, keep it in the back of your mind. And if you haven’t found one yet, here are some additional exercise benefits to consider:

It can help slow aging-related changes like the loss of bone density or shifts in cognitive function.

It’s fundamental to practicing a heart-healthy lifestyle.

There are as many reasons to exercise as there are activities to choose from. And if you don’t consider yourself an “exercise person,” there’s a good chance you haven’t found your go-to workout just yet.

As you make your fitness plan, give some thought to how you really want to spend those 150 minutes each week. Research and experts both agree that people are more likely to stick to an exercise routine if they actually enjoy it, and your chosen workout often plays a role in the consistency of your habits.

Take your interests, strengths, and personality all into account. Are you most comfortable at a fast or slow pace? Inspired by nature? Enjoy a healthy dose of competition? More fond of team sports or solo challenges? You might be surprised by the amount of options.

When in doubt, think of activities you feel confident doing or skills you would like to continue to build. If certain types of exercise aren’t the right fit, there’s often an alternative to consider. For example, the rowing machine is a great alternative to swimming for anyone seeking a low-impact cardio workout.

Create a routine that sustains your goals.

Repetition and consistency will keep you going when motivation wanes, so build a routine that sustains your habits.

First and foremost, make sure there’s time in your schedule for exercise. Block off a half hour for a workout on your calendar, just as you would for a meeting or doctor’s appointment. Make sure to have a back-up plan, too — if your 7 am pilates class isn’t feasible one week, leave room for a midday walk or run around the neighborhood.

Life too busy? We have a couple of tips for those short on time:

High intensity interval training (HIIT), which alternates quick spurts of intense effort with brief rest, is a great way to fit aerobic exercise into a packed schedule.

Take a few shorter walks throughout the day instead of a 30-minute or hour-long stroll — you’ll still reap the benefits!

Goals are a key component of any exercise plan, but it’s important that they are achievable. Over-ambition is one of the biggest barriers to progress and consistency: if you aim too high right out of the gate, you may find yourself quickly discouraged and decide to throw in the towel altogether.

Be specific: Rather than setting out to “exercise more,” commit to exercising for a certain number of days a week.

Be flexible: Aiming for a range of 3-5 days each week can help you still feel accomplished if you need to slightly scale down during busy times.

Focus on the process: Many behavioral science experts suggest structuring your goals around the process or activity — for instance, how long you exercise — rather than an outcome, which is less within your control. It takes time to form a new habit — 18 to 254 days, to be precise — so simply showing up is a worthwhile goal to work toward.

Gradually build on your goals: Once you have a foundation in place, keep yourself motivated by expanding your goals. If you’re a runner, you might try to gradually increase the length or distance of your regular workout. Make sure to check with a doctor or fitness expert about finding an appropriate level of fitness intensity.

Eliminate obstacles through small actions.

Look for opportunities that make it easier to follow through with your fitness intentions. Having to choose an outfit for your morning workout might not seem like much effort, but packing a gym bag in advance or folding your workout clothes by your bed the night before removes an extra step from the process.

If you’re starting to work out in a gym, plan a specific workout in advance so that you can maximize your time once you’re there.

For an extra boost of motivation, make your fitness routine more social. Research has found a link between the success of a workout program and social accountability. So dig through your personal network to find a gym or yoga buddy, or search for a local running club. Not only will you benefit from the extra accountability — you’ll be offering it in return.

Navigating exercise with a chronic health condition

There’s often a misconception that certain conditions, including diabetes and COPD, prevent exercise. In actuality, regular physical activity is part of managing many chronic conditions. However, there may be additional considerations to account for when creating an exercise routine.

Here are some general guidelines to be mindful of when exercising with diabetes, COPD, asthma, osteoporosis, or arthritis. Always speak with your provider to discuss what activities are appropriate for your personal health history.

Maintaining healthy blood sugar is a crucial part of diabetes management. Exercise is a factor in your glucose levels, and some people experience decreased blood sugar during or after exercise. 

A variety of factors can affect your blood sugar response to exercise, including:

Your blood sugar levels prior to exercise

To exercise safely as a person with diabetes, check your blood sugar before, during, and after exercise, and be prepared to treat low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia.

In strengthening your respiratory muscles and making it easier to breathe, regular physical activity is key to maintaining an active life while living with COPD. However, it’s important to practice gentle exercises that don’t overexert your lungs. Your provider can help you determine appropriate activities.

You may also benefit from pulmonary rehabilitation, an outpatient exercise and education program that helps those with COPD manage the condition.

As many as 90% of people with asthma experience respiratory symptoms during physical activity. For some, symptoms begin right at the start of exercising while others experience airflow obstruction after returning to a state of rest. In some cases, symptoms quickly resolve, but they may last up to 24 hours in others.

Rather than avoiding exercise to prevent an asthma flare-up, speak with your healthcare provider about your asthma treatment plan and look for forms of exercise with an appropriate level of intensity.

The weakening of the bones in osteoporosis increases the risk for fractures, so those with the condition should take precautions to avoid exercise-related injuries.

Here are some general guidelines for exercising with osteoporosis. Check with your provider about which activities are the best for you. 

Unless otherwise informed by your doctor, avoid high-impact exercises and activities that involve frequent bending or twisting, as they may increase your risk of fractures.

Explore weight-bearing aerobic activities to strengthen bones in your legs, hips, and lower spine.

Try simple balancing exercises or movement-based stability exercises such as tai chi to maintain good stability and balance.

Opt for gentle activities like water exercises, tai chi, yoga, and stretching, all of which reduce joint pressure and expand your joints’ range of motion.

Let Alto support your health and wellness

Staying on top of your health should be as simple as possible, and we’re here to support you with exceptional pharmacy care. We offer fast and reliable courier delivery and medication management tools like reminders and auto refills in our mobile app.

Today, Alto was named to the 2023 CNBC Disruptor 50. This annual list celebrates the most innovative and game-changing private companies across various industries. We are grateful to be included among these incredible companies, and humbled by this recognition of our business model, operations, and value proposition.

Alto Named to 2023 CNBC’s Disruptor 50 List

At Alto, our mission is to fulfill medicine’s true purpose — to improve quality of life — for everyone who needs it. By putting patients first, we’re increasing accessibility to medicine, improving prescription adherence and making a meaningful difference in the lives of patients. 

Today, Alto was named to the 2023 CNBC Disruptor 50. This annual list recognizes private companies that are chasing some of the market’s biggest opportunities, and growing despite a tough capital markets environment and slowing economy. We are grateful to be included among these incredible companies, and humbled by this recognition of our business model, operations, and value proposition.

Despite the challenging economic headwinds that all industries are facing, we’ve remained competitive, agile, and committed to delivering outstanding patient care. Just last year, we launched Essentials from Alto, allowing customers to purchase pharmacy items along with their prescription medication in the Alto pharmacy app. This provides even more access to individuals who are disabled, lack physical mobility, or otherwise can’t reach a pharmacy. 

As we celebrate this achievement, we are also mindful of the challenges that lie ahead. The healthcare industry is complex, and there is still much work to be done to ensure that every patient receives the care they deserve. But with our innovative offerings and unwavering commitment to our customers, we are confident that we can make an even bigger difference. 

Alto Named to 2023 CNBC Disruptor 50 List

The time to prepare for seasonal allergies is earlier than you might expect, as taking medications before everything is in bloom can help significantly to control symptoms. This year, you may want to consider ramping up your prevention efforts even earlier than usual: one consequence of climate change and rising temperatures worldwide is a longer growing season and higher levels of pollen in the air.

Why It’s Never Too Early to Prepare for Seasonal Allergies

The commonly used over-the-counter (OTC) medications below can help make allergy season more manageable — and many are available for purchase at the Essentials Store in our app! To browse the selection, tap the "Store" icon along the bottom of the Alto mobile app or the "Store" icon in your account on desktop.

Over-the-counter allergy medications to take preventatively

Nasal corticosteroid sprays prevent inflammation to reduce allergy symptoms such as stuffiness, sneezing, and a runny nose. Common OTC options include:

When taken in advance, these medications can potentially prevent the onset of allergy symptoms altogether. Many health experts suggest taking them about four weeks before the official start of allergy season, the specific timing of which depends on where you live.

For many people who experience seasonal allergies, symptoms typically first appear when trees start to release pollen in late winter and early spring. However, this pattern is changing as winter temperatures rise, and the timing of pollination also varies by region. To make the best plan, check local pollen levels and consult with your provider.

These medications block histamine, a chemical that your immune system releases during an allergic reaction. You may take them up to two weeks before the start of allergy season, as a preventative measure, but they can also be taken on an as-needed basis if you experience symptoms. They offer fast relief, taking anywhere from 15 minutes to two hours to go into effect.

Some antihistamines, including Benadryl® (diphenhydramine), can cause drowsiness and are not recommended to take before driving or other activities that require your attention.

The following antihistamines are less likely to cause drowsiness:

Not all allergy medications can be taken preventatively. While decongestants like Afrin® (oxymetazoline) and Sudafed® (pseudoephedrine) are effective at relieving congestion, they should only be taken on a short-term basis. Longer-term use may worsen allergy symptoms.

When to see a specialist for allergy symptoms

Remember that it may take time and a bit of trial and error to find the best relief for your allergies. If you experience regular symptoms after exploring a few options, work with your provider to find the best solution for your needs.

You may benefit from consulting a specialist such as an allergist or immunologist. These healthcare professionals can help identify more specific allergy triggers. They can also facilitate even more treatment options, including a preventative treatment called immunotherapy, which exposes you to allergens so that you become less sensitive to them. Immunotherapy comes in the form of both allergy shots and sublingual tablets placed beneath the tongue.

Stock up on allergy medications at the Alto Essentials Store

Purchase allergy season essentials like Claritin, Flonase, Zyrtec, Allegra and more right from your Alto account! You can order Essentials products whenever you need them, or add them to your next prescription delivery.

If your allergy symptoms persist even after preventative steps and exploring OTC options, we can support your treatment plan. We’ll coordinate with your doctor and insurance to offer your medications at the best price we can find, and our expert pharmacists are available via in-app messaging to answer any questions you may have about symptoms or side effects.

All third party trademarks (including logos and icons) referenced by Alto Pharmacy remain the property of their respective owners. Unless specifically identified as such, Alto’s use of third party trademarks does not indicate any relationship, sponsorship or endorsement between Alto and the owners of these trademarks.

Many of us are familiar with heartburn, a burning sensation in the throat frequently triggered by what we eat. While occasional heartburn can often be prevented or managed with lifestyle adjustments and over-the-counter medications, more frequent or severe cases may indicate an underlying condition that requires additional treatment.

Here’s what to know about the causes and triggers of heartburn and treatment options.

How to Prevent or Treat Heartburn

Many of us are familiar with heartburn, a burning sensation in the throat frequently triggered by what we eat. While occasional heartburn can often be prevented or managed with lifestyle adjustments and over-the-counter medications, more frequent or severe cases may indicate an underlying condition that requires additional treatment.

Here’s what to know about the causes and triggers of heartburn and treatment options.

The burning sensation that characterizes heartburn is caused by reflux, an issue with the digestive process. Normally, a valve at the bottom of your esophagus called the esophageal sphincter allows food to enter your stomach, where acids help digest what you’ve eaten.

Reflux occurs when the esophageal sphincter doesn’t close as it should, allowing acid to pass from the stomach into the esophagus. While your stomach is equipped to handle this acidic mixture, your esophagus is more sensitive, and reflux results in the discomfort of heartburn.

There are several potential causes of heartburn, including the following:

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Severe, recurring heartburn may be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or chronic acid reflux.

Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and the pressure of your growing baby during pregnancy may affect esophageal function.

Eating habits: Dietary choices, the size of your meals, and eating close to bedtime frequently factor into heartburn.

Lifestyle habits: Acid reflux has also been linked to smoking and high levels of stress.

Medications: Certain medications — including over-the-counter pain relief medications such as ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) and aspirin; tricyclic antidepressants; and some blood pressure and heart medications — are known to irritate the esophagus, resulting in heartburn or increasing the severity of GERD.

Food and drinks that are known to trigger heartburn include:

Citrus fruits like oranges, limes, and lemons

Many people are able to manage mild or occasional heartburn with small changes to their routine or habits. Here are some steps to take as a starting point.

Many health experts suggest eating at least three to four hours before going to bed so that your stomach has time to empty.

Eating smaller portions or having multiple smaller meals throughout the day rather than a few larger ones may help prevent heartburn.

In addition to avoiding triggers like onions, tomatoes, and spicy or acidic foods, eating certain foods may help you manage heartburn discomfort. Oatmeal and whole grains can absorb and reduce acid. Replacing full-fat dairy products with low-fat ones is often another effective preventative measure.

Some people find that belts and tight clothing can trigger their acid reflux.

Slouching may put additional pressure on your abdomen, which can in turn cause acid to enter the esophagus. Try to sit straight and maintain an upright position.

If you frequently experience heartburn, lying flat on your back likely isn’t the best sleep position. For relief, elevate your upper body as much as possible with a wedge pillow or by adjusting the settings on your bed, if possible.

Over-the-counter medications for heartburn

Along with the above changes to lifestyle habits, over-the-counter (OTC) medications can help manage mild cases of heartburn. Three types of OTCs are frequently used to treat heartburn: antacids, acid blockers, and proton pump inhibitors.

OTC antacids including Tums®, Rolaids®, Maalox®, and Gaviscon® relieve heartburn by reducing the amount of acid in your stomach.

In some cases, these medications may cause side effects such as constipation, diarrhea, or stomach cramps. They aren’t recommended for those with symptoms of appendicitis or bowel inflammation. Consult with your doctor in advance about the best way to take these medications.

OTC acid blockers including Pepcid AC® and Tagamet HB® block production of stomach acid to relieve heartburn and other digestive issues.

Your provider may advise you to take antacids when you first begin to take an acid blocker. Antacids are faster-acting and can help relieve heartburn discomfort while acid blocker effects begin. Always follow your doctor’s directions. In most cases, an antacid is taken an hour before or an hour after taking an acid blocker. 

Stronger acid blockers are available by prescription only.

Proton pump inhibitors such as Prilosec® also block production of stomach acid.

Purchase pharmacy essentials like Tums and Prilosec through the Alto Essentials store in our mobile app!

If OTC medications don’t ease your heartburn, your provider may prescribe you a medication. There are two main classes of prescription medications for heartburn.

Prescription-strength acid blockers including Pepcid, Tagamet, and Zantac® offer a higher dose than their OTC counterparts to relieve more severe heartburn and treat GERD.

Prescription-strength proton pump inhibitors including Aciphex®, Nexium®, Prevacid®, Prilosec, and Protonix® are highly effective at blocking production of stomach acid.

When should I speak to a doctor about heartburn?

It typically isn’t advised to use any OTC heartburn medication for longer than two weeks without speaking to your doctor.

You should also speak to your doctor about your heartburn if your stool is darker than usual or you’re experiencing vomiting in addition to other symptoms.

Some heartburn medications including Tums and Prilosec are available for purchase in the Essentials Store in the Alto app. You can also add these products to your order when scheduling your medication delivery.

If your treatment plan includes a prescription medication, we’ll make it as simple as possible to manage, with fast and reliable delivery and support with insurance and savings opportunities.

You can reach out with any questions directly through in-app messaging.

Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones, increasing your risk for unexpected bone fractures, often of the hip, wrist, or spine. It affects an estimated 200 million people around the world, including 54 million individuals in the U.S. Though it isn’t curable, there are a variety of treatment options that can help protect and strengthen your bones. Read on to learn about the leading causes and treatment options of osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis, Explained | Alto Pharmacy

Your bones are constantly changing. When you’re young, new bone forms more quickly than old bone is lost, increasing your overall bone mass. This process starts to slow over time — typically beginning in your early 20s — and as you age, the reverse happens. Old bone disintegrates more quickly than new bone develops, decreasing your overall bone mass.

For those with osteoporosis, these changes are more pronounced, with lower than average bone mass and density. The inside of healthy bone resembles a honeycomb or a sponge, with many tiny holes. Osteoporosis, which means “porous bone,” gradually increases the size of these holes, lowering bone density and strength. As bones grow weak, brittle, and more porous, they become increasingly susceptible to fractures.

The condition is progressive. Without effective treatment, it may worsen, increasing your risk of a fracture. In cases of severe osteoporosis, even sneezing or minor bumps can fracture bone.

Osteoporosis is often preceded by a condition called osteopenia, which is characterized by less severe loss of bone density. Not all cases of osteopenia progress into osteoporosis, and simple lifestyle changes can help protect your bones and preserve bone mass. Regular bone density tests every two to three years are also an important component of osteoporosis prevention.

Sometimes referred to as a silent disease, osteoporosis often presents without noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they may include the following:

Posture changes such as stooping or bending forward

Since osteoporosis isn’t always accompanied by symptoms, it’s important to stay on track with bone density screenings as you age, especially if you are at increased risk for the condition. Many people first learn that they have osteoporosis after a fracture. If you have a family history of osteoporosis or a related health condition (see below), speak with a healthcare provider about your risk and recommended screenings.

Osteoporosis may be caused by a variety of factors, both preventable and non-preventable. Age and sex play the greatest role in the condition’s development. The condition affects women four times more often than men, and postmenopausal women have the highest risk of developing osteoporosis. This is due to how decreased estrogen levels after menopause alter the rhythm of bone remodeling, in addition to the overall aging-related loss of bone mass.

Though osteoporosis affects more women than men, everyone’s risk increases with age. Men over the age of 50 are significantly more susceptible to osteoporosis-induced bone breaks or fractures than those of a younger age.

The following factors may also contribute to the development of osteoporosis:

Bone structure and body weight — those with less body weight don’t have as much bone to lose and face a higher risk for osteoporosis.

Other health conditions including overactive thyroid, parathyroid, or adrenal glands; celiac disease; and inflammatory bowel disease

Previous hormone treatment, including for breast or prostate cancer or an irregular menstrual cycle

Previous bariatric surgery or organ transplant

Lifestyle factors including a history of smoking, alcohol use, a sedentary lifestyle, or calcium or vitamin D insufficiency

Bone mineral density (BMD) tests — also known as dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA or DXA) scans — are used to identify bone health issues in advance as well as to diagnose osteoporosis. 

A DEXA scan uses small amounts of radiation to assess the solidity of spine, hip, and wrist bones. Regular X-rays can only detect osteoporosis in more advanced stages.

This screening is recommended for all women over the age of 65 and all men over the age of 70, regardless of other risk factors. It may be recommended for postmenopausal women and men between 50-70 years old if other risk factors are present. Consult with your doctor about your preventative health needs and recommended screenings.

Treatment for osteoporosis varies by individual. Your doctor will make tailored recommendations about medications, diet, and exercise based on your needs. A treatment plan may include the following components.

Oral and injectable bisphosphonates, which prevent the loss of bone mass, are commonly prescribed for osteoporosis. Examples include:

Hormone therapy including estrogen and testosterone can also stop bone density loss. Estrogen has been associated with an increased risk for blood clots, certain cancers, and heart disease, and is typically reserved for younger women or women with menopause symptoms.

A medication called raloxifene (Evista®) offers similar benefits as estrogen therapy, but without many of the above risks. However, it is also associated with a higher risk of blood clots.

Three anabolic agents — romososumab-aqqg (Evenity®), teriparatide (Forteo®), and abaloparatide (Tymlos®) — are FDA-approved to treat osteoporosis. These medications support new bone formation and are administered as injections.

A biologic called denosumab (Prolia®) may be prescribed if other treatments aren’t effective. It is administered as an injection every six months.

There’s anecdotal evidence that some supplements can support bone health, however, research is still evolving, and few studies formally support the effectiveness of supplements. Speak with your doctor before taking supplements, as they may cause side effects or interact with other medications.

Nutrition significantly affects bone strength and health. Calcium and vitamin D are the two most important nutrients for managing osteoporosis. Calcium helps maintain strong bones and vitamin D allows your body to absorb calcium.

Nutritious sources of calcium include low-fat dairy products and dark green leafy vegetables. Vitamin D can be found in trout, salmon, and vitamin D-fortified milk and cereal. Some individuals get some of their vitamin D from sunlight, though this depends on your location and exposure to sunlight.

The recommended daily intakes for calcium and vitamin D vary by individual. General guidelines are below, but always check with your provider about your recommended intake.

Women with postmenopausal osteoporosis: 1200 mg of calcium and 800 international units of vitamin D

Women with premenopausal osteoporosis or men with osteoporosis: 1000 mg of calcium and 600 international units of vitamin D

Some evidence suggests that excess calcium consumption may cause kidney stones, calcium accumulation in blood vessels, and constipation. Always consult with your healthcare provider before taking supplements.

Other nutrients that promote bone health include:

Magnesium - found in whole grains and dark green leafy vegetables

Vitamin K - found in dark green leafy vegetables and canola oil

Zinc - found in whole grains, poultry, and nuts

Exercise is also part of living with osteoporosis. While certain types of exercise should be avoided given the risk for injuries, others offer many benefits for those with the condition.

Weight-bearing aerobic activities — performed on your feet — strengthen bones in your legs, hips, and lower spine. This includes walking, dancing, and low-impact aerobics.

It’s important to maintain good stability and balance. Try simple balancing exercises like standing on one leg or movement-based stability exercises, such as tai chi.

Unless otherwise informed by your doctor, avoid high-impact exercises and activities that involve frequent bending or twisting, as they may increase your risk of fractures. Always check with your doctor about which exercises are appropriate for you.

Take precautions to prevent falls both inside and outside of your home. You may wish to consult with your provider about whether or not they recommend an assistive device to improve balance and increase mobility.

Use the tips below as a starting point to prevent indoor and outdoor falls.

Avoid cleaning products that leave the floor slippery

Keep the area surrounding your house or apartment in good condition and free of clutter

The Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation (BHOF) and American Bone Health offer support and community for individuals living with osteoporosis.

Life with osteoporosis is easier with a reliable pharmacy partner by your side. Our pharmacists can answer any questions you may have, from medication side effects to navigating lifestyle changes. In addition, we offer free, same-day delivery and medication management tools like reminders and auto refills in our app to make it as simple as possible to stay on track with your treatment.

To learn more, reach out any time through secure in-app messaging or by phone at 1-800-874-5881.

With many variables involved in an individual’s fertility, learning more about your reproductive health can help you manage expectations about your body’s response to fertility treatment. The anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) test, which measures your body’s levels of a hormone associated with ovarian reserve, is one potential source of information for those experiencing infertility.

AMH Testing in Fertility Treatment

While the AMH test can reveal certain factors related to your reproductive health, it is not relevant to all aspects of fertility, or all types of fertility issues. Here’s more about the AMH test, including what it can and can’t tell you.

Anti-mullerian hormone is a hormone that affects how a baby’s reproductive organs develop while in the womb. Male babies have higher levels of AMH than female babies.

AMH is also related to a woman’s ovarian reserve. Cells inside the ovarian follicles — fluid-filled sacs that release an egg during ovulation — produce AMH. An individual's levels of AMH correspond to their egg count, with higher levels of the hormone typically indicating a higher ovarian reserve.

Blog

A Guide to Healthy Aging

How to Start and Stick to a Fitness Routine

Alto Named to 2023 CNBC Disruptor 50 List

Why It’s Never Too Early to Prepare for Seasonal Allergies

How to Prevent or Treat Heartburn

Osteoporosis, Explained

AMH Testing in Fertility Treatment

A Full Pharmacy At Your Doorstep: Introducing Essentials from Alto

Infertility, Explained

The Science of Habit-Forming

Hello, Long Island!

Alto Pharmacy Announced as One of Forbes Best Startup Employers for the Second Consecutive Year!

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