Expert: Kimberly A. Tessmer, RD LD - 4/23/2007

Question
Dear Expert,
Good Day!
I would like to get your help to learn “How to increase the Bone Density”
I am 22 (male) and have started running as exercise form the last 15 days but I am feeling my legs stressed (somewhat tiredness and pain in the legs).
I think my all bones (including teeth) are suffering the same problem(less bone density).
What diet should I take to overcome this all. However, I am taking milk regularly.
Also please advise what causes of less density of bones are.  I think masturbation is the main cause as I am masturbating from the age of 14.  As due to masturbation much Protein is wasted in shape of semen so I am facing the deficiency of Protein. Am I right?
Yours truly,
Rizwan


Answer
First of all pain in the legs as you are describing is probably not a bone density problem.  Low bone density is not a problem until you are MUCH, much older and is more predominant in women.  To keep bones strong, exercise and calcium intake is important.  Calcium is abundant in dairy foods as well as others such as milk, cheese, yogurt, fortified OJ, dark green leafy veggies, almonds, etc...  At 22 you should get about 1,000 mg per day.
Masturbation has nothing to do with bone density or protein deficiency.  If you are worried about the pain in your legs you should see your doctor.
Kim Tessmer, RD LD