In this article we give a brief overview of some of the factors that affect bone health in children and adolescents. The period of life from birth to adolescence is vital in terms of building a healthy skeleton. It is also important in terms of developing habits that aid in keeping bones strong and healthy. These habits can help maintain robust bone health through the individual’s adult and older years.
A diet that is considered appropriate for optimal bone health is also recommended for overall good health and the prevention of chronic diseases. Thus, healthcare providers have an opportunity, at every patient encounter, to provide counseling with regards to good nutrition for healthy bones. This nutritional counseling is vital to prevent many common “lifestyle” diseases such as obesity, hypertension, and diabetes. Therefore, healthcare professionals should not miss this excellent opportunity to reinforce the importance of a healthy balanced diet in terms of both overall health and bone health.
Bone health is a pressing issue in America and around the world. It needs to be addressed with a preventive approach with the early institution of interventions. There is a need for healthcare providers to understand the importance of bone health as a public health issue. The goal is to promote strong bones in the American population so that fractures and their associated complications can be prevented. In this article we provide a brief overview of how bone health is an important public health issue.
Millions of Americans are affected by bone diseases from various causes, the most common of which is osteoporosis. People with osteoporosis are at a high risk of fractures. Fractures are often disabling and lead to deterioration in the patient’s physical and mental health. Primary osteoporosis is the most common type of osteoporosis. It is the result of deteriorating bone structure and bone loss with aging. Primary osteoporosis can be prevented through proper nutrition, adequate physical exercise, and when necessary, appropriate treatment. Secondary osteoporosis is the result of other diseases that affect the bones and certain drugs and toxic substances that make bones weak. If secondary osteoporosis is recognized in time, it can be prevented with nutrition, physical activity, and treatment if needed.
Osteoporosis is especially prevalent in older adults. Healthcare professionals play a valuable role in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of bone diseases in this age group of patients. In general, the nutritional guidelines for younger adults are also applicable to older adults. However, some specific recommendations are relevant to this group of patients in terms of nutrition and bone health in the elderly.
For most individuals, the recommended intake of vitamin D is 200 IU per day. However, people in the 50- to 70-year age group are recommended to increase their vitamin D intake to 400 IU per day. People above the age of 70 should take 600 IU of vitamin D every day. What is the best vitamin D for bone health? Dietary sources or supplements?