For the aging individual, a diagnosis of osteoporosis means an increased risk of fractures. Along with that can come fears of pain, postural deformity, disability and loss of independence. In a society of aging baby-boomers, osteoporosis is an increasing public health concern. Each year, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 1.5 million fractures are attributed to osteoporosis in the United States. Medical expenses associated with these fractures cost the nation $17 billion in 2005. Assuring proper vitamin and nutrient intake is important in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.
Macronutrients
Protein, fat and carbohydrates are the "macronutrients" in the diet that provide sources of energy. These nutrients must be present in adequate amounts, particularly during growth years, to ensure healthy bone growth. Sufficient protein intake is particularly important according to authors of a commentary published in "The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism" in 1999. Protein accounts for most of the non-mineral composition of bone and an adequate intake is essential for proper bone formation. Bone mass gains are positively correlated with protein intake in children.
Vitamins
Vitamin D is a key nutrient for bone health. It is involved in several of the steps that move important minerals from the digestive tract, through the blood stream and into bone. The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends a daily intake of 400 International Units (IU) of vitamin D for girls up to age 18. Women over the age of 18 should take 400 to 800 IU per day. Vitamin K is also involved in bone metabolism and should be consumed in adequate amounts. Green vegetables contain high amounts of this vitamin.
Minerals
When a health care provider speaks of "bone mineral density" the primary mineral this refers to is calcium. There is no question that adequate dietary calcium is necessary for healthy bone production and maintenance. The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends a daily intake of 1,300 mg of calcium for growing girls; girls 19 and over should take 1,000 mg per day. Other minerals, including magnesium, phosphorous and zinc also play roles in bone health.
Calories
Osteoporosis is actually less likely to develop in an overweight person than a thin person. This is due to hormonal influences of body fat combined with the bone-strengthening effects of increased weight-bearing in the heavier person. A study of women over 65 published in the October 1997 "American Journal of Medicine" found that thin women had more than double the risk of hip fracture compared to the heaviest women in the study. While there are many negative health effects associated with being overweight, this study highlights the importance of maintaining adequate caloric intake to avoid becoming underweight and risking poor bone density.
Cautions
Because some medications can interact with dietary supplements, and because some health conditions can alter nutrient requirements, it is always wise to discuss a supplementation plan with a qualified health-care provider.
References
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
- National Osteoporosis Foundation
- "The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism"; Adolescent Nutrition in the Prevention of Postmenopausal Osteoporosis; C. Weaver, M. Peacock and C. Johnston; 1999
- "The American Journal of Medicine"; Body Size and Hip Fracture Risk in Older Women: A Prospective Study. Study of Osteoporotic Fractures Research Group; K. Ensrud, R. Lipshutz, J. Cauley, et al; October 1997
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