I see clients that are affected by osteoporosis and I often reflect on how their diet during adolescence may have prevented it.
Bones develop quickly in teenage years, with 40-60 per cent of peak bone mineral content being laid down in adolescence and 80-90 per cent of the skeleton being formed by the age of 18 years.
A good diet in teenage years can increase bone mineral density which promotes healthy bones later in adult life, helping to prevent conditions like osteoporosis.
Calcium increases bone mass and plays a role in preventing osteoporosis. As bone mass is laid down as an adolescent calcium intake as an individual nutrient is vital as a teenager. Calcium is found in good supply in dairy, bread, many green leafy vegetables and salad.
Of greater importance may be the relationship between calcium and vitamin D when it comes to bone health. A potential vitamin D deficiency, leading to poor calcium absorption, may lead to calcium deficiency and hence reduced musculoskeletal health. The recommended 10 µg/day in the UK should be achieved via the diet, supplementation or exposure to sunlight. Dietary sources include fish, red meat, liver, egg yolks, fortified cereals & spreads and some mushrooms.
If you like help achieving optimum nutrition at your lifestage please message me or contact me for a chat to see if my nutrition services may help you and your family.
Nina Thomas
Registered Associate Nutritionist
07958 765337
bridgfordbinghamnutrition@outlook.com
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