Nutrients in Bone Health

Bone Growth

Increase in bone size; begins in womb, complete by age 18 in girls and age 21 in boys.

Bone Modeling

Shaping of bone; begins in womb and is complete by early adulthood.

Bone Remodeling

Breakdown of old bone tissue (resorption) and formation of new bone tissue; occurs predominantly during adulthood.

Bone Density

The compactness of bones; peak bone density is when bones are strongest.

Peak Bone Density

The stage when bones are at their strongest.

DXA or DEXA

Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry; a noninvasive measurement of bone density.

T-score

A score used to assess a person's risk for fracture and diagnose osteoporosis.

Calcium

A major mineral important for bone structure, acid-base balance, nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and blood clotting.

Vitamin D

A fat-soluble vitamin that helps regulate blood calcium levels and is synthesized upon exposure to sunlight.

Phosphorus

An essential component of all cells that is critical in bone formation and fluid balance.

Magnesium

A mineral found in bone structure that acts as a cofactor for over 300 enzyme systems.

Vitamin K

A fat-soluble vitamin important for blood coagulation and bone metabolism.

Osteoporosis

A disorder characterized by low bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue, leading to increased fracture risk.

Calcium Absorption

The process that requires an acid environment and the presence of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (calcitriol) for effective absorption.

Hypercalcemia

High blood calcium levels, which can cause heart failure and mental confusion.

Hypocalcemia

Low blood calcium levels, which can lead to muscle spasms and convulsions.

Calcium UL

Upper limit set at 2,500 mg/day for adult calcium intake.

Vitamin D Toxicity

Excess Vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia and associated health issues.

Type I Osteoporosis

Postmenopausal Osteoporosis, more common in women and characterized by a decrease in trabecular bone.

Type II Osteoporosis

Senile Osteoporosis, more common after age 70 and involves a decrease in both trabecular and cortical bone.

Risk Factors for Osteoporosis

Factors include low calcium intake, low body weight, smoking, older age, and family history.

Fluoride

A trace mineral that develops and maintains teeth and bones, stored in teeth and bones.