Bone Health
•Last Updated: October 13, 2024
Bone health refers to the strength of bones and the quality of bone structure. Bone health is usually measured as bone mineral density. Bone health is affected by nutrient intake, hormonal regulation, exercise, and age, among other factors.
Bone Health falls under theJoints & Bonescategory.
Last Updated:October 13, 2024
Bone health refers to the strength and density of bones, which are essential for supporting body structure, protecting organs, housing bone marrow, regulating hormones, and storing minerals. It is a complex aspect of health that is interconnected with other organ systems.
Bone health is initially assessed by a medical provider through a detailed history and physical exam and the use of risk factor screening tools. The most common measurement of bone health is bone mineral density.
A well-designed exercise program can enhance bone health by increasing bone mineral density and improving muscle strength, balance, and coordination, and resistance training, plyometrics, weight-bearing exercises, and multidirectional activities are particularly beneficial. However, excessive exercise without proper recovery and nutrition can lead to decreased bone mass and conditions like relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S).
Calcium and vitamin D have been extensively studied for their effect on bone health, and limited evidence supports the effectiveness of calcium supplements in reducing fracture risk. However, supplementation may provide small benefits for people with very low levels of these nutrients and older adults who are at higher risk for osteoporosis.
A well-balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein is essential for maintaining bone health because these nutrients help establish and preserve bone mass. Additionally, other nutrients like copper, zinc, and magnesium, along with a diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and dairy, contribute to better bone health, though specific dietary needs may vary based on individual medical conditions.
Factors that can negatively affect bone health include being underweight, smoking, female sex, having a family history of osteoporosis, and long-term use of certain medications. Additionally, specific diseases such as anorexia, cancer, and type 2 diabetes can also increase the risk of poor bone health.
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- ^Exercise for Your Bone Health
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- ^Rickets and osteomalacia(2018-06-06)
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- ^Bone Health for Life: Health Information Basics for You and Your Family
- ^How to keep your bones healthy
- ^Bone Health for Life: Health Information Basics for You and Your Family
- ^Bone Mass Measurement: What the Numbers Mean
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