Bone Health

Bone Health is critical for men and women of all ages, but is equally critical for children beginning at an early age.

The National Institute of Health reports "It is especially important to build strong and healthy bones in the childhood and teen years to avoid osteoporosis and other bone problems later in life. Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones are fragile, making them fracture or break much easier. Taking care of your bones when you're young will help prevent problems in the future".

Ninety percent of your bone mass forms before 20 years of age. Up until the age of about 25, bone still gradually increases in mass and density, as calcium and other minerals are deposited. Bone breakdown begins when the osteoclasts dissolve the old bone faster than the osteoblasts can keep up with the 'replacement'. As this continues, the honeycomb-like structure becomes thinner, more brittle and disconnected. Over time, the entire structure of the bone starts to erode. This can cause the bone to lose its density and strength.

A healthy skeletal system with strong bones is essential to overall health and quality of life. Yet, today, far too many individuals suffer from bone disease and fractures, much of which could be prevented. An estimated 12 million Americans over age 50 have osteoporosis (the most common bone disease), while another 40 million are at risk. The number of sufferers is however set to increase steadily with growing numbers of elderly living longer, and obesity adding extra strain on bones. In recognition of the importance of promoting bone health and preventing fractures, President George W. Bush has declared 2002-2011 as the Decade of the Bone and Joint. With this designation, the United States has joined with other nations throughout the world in committing resources to accelerate progress in a variety of areas related to the musculoskeletal system, including bone disease and arthritis [US-DHHS, 2000; 2004].

The Problem: Women can lose up to 20% of their bone mass in the first 5 to 7 years after menopause.
Each year more women break a bone due to Osteoporosis than have a stroke, heart attack or breast cancer combined!