Bone Health

How Bone Loss Occurs

Although bones may seem like a lifeless structure as portrayed by Halloween skeletons, bone is actually a living tissue that is constantly renewing and rebuilding itself. When we are young and growing, the body creates new bone faster than it removes the old bone. In young adulthood, the rate of bone turnover begins to slow and the net turnover is usually zero, or in balance. This is the time that peak bone mass is achieved. It is critical that we maximize peak bone mass through exercise and good nutrition, so that we can minimize risk of osteoporosis later in life.

As we age, the net turnover of bone typically shifts into a negative balance and the result is bone loss that eventually leads to osteoporosis. This bone loss occurs when old bone is broken down faster than new bone can be formed and leads to both low bone density and weak bone structure. As shown in the figure below, the loss of bone structure is as detrimental to overall bone strength as the loss of bone minerals.

When bone loss becomes severe enough it can result in fractures, which can have a devastating impact on quality of life. Preventing fractures caused by weak bones through good nutrition, exercise and medical treatment is one of the primary goals of osteoporosis treatment and prevention. Nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D and magnesium are key building blocks for strong bones. BONEhealth contains these important nutrients. Start building strong bones today by combining a good exercise program with BONEhealth.