Stop worrying about your bones
Bones are cataloged as rigid, calcium-laden organs that collectively make up the skeletal system. The key word here is "organ." Beyond their supportive role for the body, which involves anchoring tendons and ligaments essential for mobility, bones also produce red and white blood cells, and store calcium and other minerals to release them selectively as needed. They also protect vital organs and contribute to hormonal regulation. Bones are much more important than we realize!
From early childhood to adulthood, the body accumulates bone mass. According to the Mayo Clinic, the average person reaches their peak bone mass around age 30, and you know the rest…
How can we monitor our bone health?
The main challenge is the lack of sensory feedback, including pain. Unfortunately, in many cases, the gradual loss of bone density and strength is only diagnosed after a fragility fracture. Furthermore, in the same way that cardiovascular diseases are perceived as "belonging to men," osteoporosis has been labeled as a condition where only menopausal women are at risk; which is not true. According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation, one in three women and one in five men over fifty years old experience osteoporosis-related bone fractures.
Bones are dynamic
Bone cells are in a constant state of growth and resorption (breakdown or loss). Previously, calcium supplementation was considered adequate for maintaining healthy bone mass. However, calcium bioavailability and the presence of nutrients that enhance absorption are also essential. Bovine-derived calcium in the form of microcrystalline hydroxyapatite (MCHA) is recognized as one of the most bioavailable forms of calcium for supporting bone growth. There are also many nutrients on the "Mount Rushmore" for bone health. After all, the goal is to trap calcium for bone remodeling and growth.
Let's talk about these nutrients. Biologically active Vitamin D3 and highly bioavailable magnesium bisglycinate are two essential nutrients that are proven to maximize assimilation. There are many other cofactors that have shown positive effects on bone density dynamics.
Vitamin K2 and green tea and grape seed extracts have a hybrid influence as they both stimulate osteoblasts (bone-building cells) and inhibit osteoclast activity (bone resorption).
Curcumin, one of the fundamental compounds in Ayurveda (traditional Indian medicine), has been clinically shown to help maintain a healthy balance between bone growth and resorption. Lutein, a natural plant-derived compound, is one of the nutrients to consider for its antioxidant action in bones, which prevents bone loss.
Zinc and manganese are skeletal-friendly minerals you don't want to miss. If you're counting calories and a bowl of mixed nuts is too tempting, a good bone-building formula should include them. Current research has also shown that vitamins B1 and B2 play a protective role in bone health.
À la carte supplementation can be exhaustive. Consider using New Roots Herbal's Strong Bones, which is among the most comprehensive formulas offered to Canadian consumers for bone development and maintenance. Let's be realistic, a healthy skeletal system is one of the key factors for healthy aging.
You deserve it!