The Importance of Healthy Bones

Healthy bones are essential for an active and fulfilling life. While bones provide physical support and are often seen as strong and rigid, they are actually living tissue that constantly grows and changes. Bones gain their strength from calcium, but also contain collagen—a protein that gives them flexibility. This flexibility, however, can make bones vulnerable to weakening and injury.

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Factors Affecting Bone Health

Bone health is closely linked to lifestyle choices. Maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle supports strong bones and helps prevent osteoporosis. Although some risk factors for bone loss cannot be changed—such as gender, age, body type, and necessary medications—other factors can be managed to protect bone strength.

Recommendations for Maintaining Bone Health

To promote healthy bones, the following steps are recommended:

  • Engage in regular exercise
  • Maintain proper nutrition
  • Consume adequate calcium and vitamin D
  • Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol use
  • Minimize use of certain medications when possible
  • Treat eating disorders promptly

Additional Considerations

Certain conditions and treatments can reduce the body’s ability to absorb nutrients essential for bone health. These include some types of bariatric surgery, eating disorders like anorexia or bulimia, and gastrointestinal diseases. Long-term use of corticosteroids, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and proton pump inhibitors can also harm bone health. Additionally, low hormone levels in postmenopausal women and men with low testosterone may contribute to decreased bone density.

Bone Loss and Aging

While some bone loss is a natural part of aging, taking proactive measures can minimize this loss and help maintain bone strength throughout life.