Protection From Osteoporosis - Bone is Living Tissue

Protection From Osteoporosis - Bone is Living Tissue

March 08, 2007

Protection From Osteoporosis - Bone is Living Tissue


    BASEL, Switzerland, March. 8 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- In
Europe, a bone breaks every 30 seconds due to osteoporosis.
 Each year, nearly 1.5 million Americans over 50 suffer
fractures caused by this bone disease. 

    Bone is a living tissue and is continuously renewed
throughout life. Peak bone mass is reached at the age of
around thirty (see figure). 

    After this age bone mass starts to decrease. Achieving
a good peak bone mass is important in reducing the risk of
osteoporosis in later life. This peak bone mass acts as
'bone capital' that is used throughout the rest of adult
life. 

    The bone team: Calcium and vitamins D and K

    A sufficient daily calcium intake is very important for
healthy bones. But osteoporosis is not only a calcium issue.
Calcium depends on vitamin D to be stored in the bones.

    For many years, scientists assumed that the body's own
production of vitamin D is sufficient to cover the
requirements in humans. But insufficient sunlight in the
winter months and lack of outdoor exercise can lead to a
vitamin D deficiency. 

    When the body lacks the sun vitamin, bones increasingly
lose their mineral content. Gradually osteoporosis develops,
which increases the risk of bone fractures. Scientists have
recognized this and recommend an increase in the daily
vitamin D dosage. Experts advise that all adults -- both
young and old 
-- should receive at least 800-1000 IU (20-25 micrograms)
of vitamin D per day. 

    Meanwhile new data also point to Vitamin K as an
important partner for calcium and vitamin D in the bone
metabolism. The bone is only well taken care of if the
entire team consisting of calcium and both vitamins is
active. Fortified foods or supplements are essential in
this regard. After all, healthy bones are the basis for a
healthy life. 

    A complete version of the press release can be
downloaded free of charge under:
http://www.presseportal.ch/de/story.htx?firmaid=100010521&lang=2

    Cross reference: Picture is distributed via EPA
(European Pressphoto Agency) and can be downloaded free of
charge under:
http://www.presseportal.ch/de/story.htx?firmaid=100010521

    For more information, please contact:

    Charlotte Frederiksen
    External Communications Manager
    DSM Nutritional Products
    Tel.:     [phone]'33'63
    Fax:      [phone]'37'16 
    E-Mail:   [e-mail]
    Internet: http://www.dsmnutritionalproducts.com