A new study suggests that people who suffer from depression are also at risk for low bone mineral density.

The study published in the journal Biological Psychiatry pooled data from both depressed and non-depressed individuals compiled over the past 14 years.

It finds that those who suffer from depression had less dense bones and increased levels of bone resorption markers than those who did not suffer from the condition.

“We propose that all individuals psychiatrically diagnosed with major depression are at risk for developing osteoporosis, with depressed women—particularly those who are premenopausa—showing a higher risk than men,” the study’s authors Drs. Raz Yirmiya and Itai Bab say.

Previous studies have found higher cortisol levels, often found in depressed patients, can contribute to bone loss because the hormone destroys bone-building cells.

Exercise is a natural health resource proven to aid in both warding off depression and bone loss.

In addition, studies have found that green tea, calcium, magnesium, vitamin D and boron can all aid in maintaining bone density. For those worried their diet may be lacking in these, nutritional health supplements are a viable option.

Meanwhile, omega-3 fatty acids, folic acid and herbal supplements containing St. John’s Wort and Sam-e have been linked to reducing depression.