A high calcium intake will promote optimal bone growth in youth and decrease the rate of bone loss in the later postmenopausal period. In early menopause, estrogen is the only effective therapy for conserving bone in women. In older women, a high plasma level of vitamin D enhances calcium absorption, whereas high sodium, protein, alcohol, and caffeine intakes will cause increased urinary losses and negative calcium balance. This article focuses on the nutritional factors that influence bone health. Mg deficiency is primarily due to renal Mg-wasting and is exacerbated by dietary Mg deprivation, gastrointestinal losses with diarrhea or vomiting, as well as concomitant use of drugs such as diuretics and aminoglycosides.
Osteoporosis is prevalent in the alcoholic population.
Mg deficiency may contribute to increased bone loss by its effects on mineral homeostasis. Serum concentrations of 1,25- vitamin D are also low. These changes are seen with even mild degrees of Mg deficiency and may contribute to the metabolic bone disease seen in chronic alcoholics. Hypomagnesemia in alcoholics may also contribute to increased cardiovascular disease by altering platelet function. Mg deficiency has been demonstrated to enhance platelet reactivity.