Taking care of the health of bones and joints is so important in childhood, as we are growing up, as adults and also as we grow older. In childhood and adolescence, bone formation outpaces bone resorption or loss. Bone mineral density then peaks in our 20s, and around mid-life bone loss tends to accelerate and overtake bone formation. Especially in menopausal women, as levels of oestrogen start to decline.
Bone formation and bone resorption are influenced by factors such as age, gender, build and ethnicity, but also diet and physical activity. Bone mass can be positively aff ected by regular activity, especially weight-bearing exercise such as walking, running, lifting weights, climbing stairs and dancing that can stimulate bone formation. It can also be supported by including essential vitamins and minerals in our diet. Let’s have a look at some of the main nutrients required…