The peak of our bone health is around age 25 to 29.
The National Institute of Health (NIH) explains that the body constantly absorbs and replaces bone tissue. Therefore, parents should think of their children’s bones as a bank account, where “deposits” of good food and exercise help build strong teeth and bones.
A healthy skeleton is a great asset later in life. See the NIH website for tips on building strong bones in your children, including while you are pregnant.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons points out that the best time to build bone density is during years of rapid growth. We lose bone mass with age, but developing high bone mass when young better protects us against osteoporosis later in life.
With the bone disease osteoporosis, new bone creation doesn’t keep up with old bone removal. It causes bones to become weak and brittle. Some persons with osteoporosis can fracture a bone with stress as mild as bending over or coughing. Osteoporosis-related fractures most commonly occur in the hip, wrist or spine.
Prevent the deterioration of bones with a healthy diet that includes calcium and is low in alcohol. Weight-bearing exercise and activities promoting balance help bones stay strong.
Ann Cochran is the health navigation coordinator in the Dallas County Public Health Department.
