Today’s teens consume a lot of caffeine-filled drinks, such as coffee, soda and energy boosters. These drinks may satisfy cravings, but too much can be dangerous. Caffeine can cause a reduction in the body’s bone mineral density, thus leading to weak bones and maybe osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones’ density and quality are reduced, making them fragile. It is possible to fracture any bone in the body, especially hips, spine and wrists.

Osteoporosis works deep within the bone. Without proper care and diet, there is a risk not only for oneself, but also later generations. Osteoporosis can be passed down in families, especially in women.

Osteoporosis does not start at age 50. The body needs calcium and vitamin D from a young age.

Sophomore Glenny Quiaoit said, “I live right next to a Starbucks in Salt Lake. I stop by and either get a Grande Caramel Macchiato Frappuccino with Caramel Walls or a Vente Vanilla Bean Frappuccino with Caramel Walls at least three times a week.”

Quiaoit said, “I am worried that I could be a victim to develop osteoporosis. Now I am more aware and cautious of what I consume.”

According to medicinenet.com, a moderate consumption of caffeine is 200 mg-300 mg per day, less than 1 oz. A tall cup of iced coffee from Starbucks contains 120 mg.

Math teacher Eric Reppun is careful about his family’s caffeine intake.

“I drink coffee, but my family does not. If anything, my wife drinks tea. We don’t let our children drink anything caffeinated or let them eat any processed foods. It

is best to keep a healthy life and get enough sleep.” Not only can highly caffeinated drinks lead to osteoporosis, a high salt diet

can also put a person at risk. Too much salt in any diet is a factor in calcium loss in bones. Salt is found in many foods, especially processed meats and foods, canned foods, baked products and fast foods.

Physics teacher Nathan Patla said, “I do not drink coffee. I rarely drink caffeinated drinks as well. The reason I do not drink anything caffeinated is because caffeine is a drug. Caffeine can get you addicted and wired.

“I did not know that caffeine could do that to the bones. Now I am happy that I have a much less risk of developing osteoporosis,” said Patla.

Still, osteoporosis is treatable. One way to prevent osteoporosis is to maintain a healthy diet. Sardines, certain cheeses, salmon or vegetables should be incorporated into meals. Eating the right foods and getting the correct amount of exercise helps maintain a diet that will lessen the risk of osteoporosis.

According to weighttraining.about.com, weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, running, jogging or weightlifting, reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Different types of aerobics are good as well.

Some foods can help avoid or treat osteoporosis.

Breakfast is the best meal to absorb as many nutrients as possible through foods, such as cereal, milk, yogurt or fortified orange juice. These foods contain vitamins that the body needs. Canned foods, such as tuna or salmon, are good to provide the correct amount of nutrients.