When you hear osteoporosis, you often think of aging adults and their bone health. “Osteoporosis is a major cause of morbidity and economic burden around the world. By the year 2020, it is estimated that half of Americans 50 years of age or older will be at risk for osteoporotic fractures,” according to researchers from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Osteoporosis Quick Facts:
- Osteoporosis causes more than 8.9 million fractures annually (that’s a fracture every 3 seconds)
- It is estimated that osteoporosis affects 75 million people in Europe, USA and Japan
- By 2025, the estimated number of hip fractures occurring worldwide in men will be similar to that observed in women in 1990
- Smoking can lead to a lower bone density and a higher risk of fracture
- Childhood and adolescence are particularly valuable times to improve bone mass through exercise
The foundation for this condition is rooted in childhood and adolescence, when preventative measures can be taken.
Nutrition in Childhood
The primary source of nutrition for infants should be human milk (or instant formula, if human milk is not attainable). After this stage of life, dietary calcium comes from milk and other dairy products, which will account for 70-80% of calcium intake.
“Based on their report, the researchers recommend that pediatricians advise children and adolescents to increase daily consumption of calcium and foods and beverages containing vitamin D, which includes nonfat milk and low-fat yogurts” (Medical News Today).
Medical News Today also says that, “as part of their report, they say routine calcium supplementation is not advised for healthy children but that increased dietary intake is strongly encouraged.
To learn more about milk and it’s alternatives, here is a helpful article.
Sources:
Medical News Today — http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/283174.php?sr
International Osteoporosis Foundation — https://www.iofbonehealth.org/facts-statistics#category-23
