The Key to Building Strong Bones

Bones serve as the framework of the human body. Bone is living tissue that undergoes a cyclical process of building, degradation, and rebuilding. While healthy bones can resist external pressures well enough to prevent breakage, some conditions such as osteoporosis affect the building and rebuilding process itself. Instead of strong bones, a person with the disease suffers from the consequences of brittle bones.
Weakened bone due to age and decrease in bone density
Men and women may be diagnosed with osteoporosis, although the condition is more prevalent in women, especially females older than 50. Whereas at a younger age, people form more bones than they are losing, the process of bone rebuilding slows down in women approaching menopause. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, the decrease in bone density is a sign of osteoporosis. Bone density is measured by a painless radiologic procedure similar to an X-ray and compared to the average measurement of that of a person 20 to 30 years of age. It is possible to lower the risk of incurring osteoporosis with daily intake of the right kinds of food and regular physical activity.
Key nutrients to build stronger bones
Vitamin D and calcium are the two main nutrients required by the body in forming strong bones. These are especially important in young children, whose bones are still forming, While Vitamin D is essential in the absorption of calcium, the latter is a key component of teeth and bones. Vitamin D is also important for the growth of bones. Both substances work together to prevent the occurrence of fractures.