Some go so far as to say osteoporosis should be viewed as a pediatric disease. Maximum bone density in young children and adolescents may not be achieved because calcium intake is often not adequate. National surveys show that many children in the U.S. consume less than half of the RDA for calcium. It is also known that a large amount of the bone a woman will lose during her lifetime is lost before menopause. The once believed notion that bone loss occurs only in elderly women is inaccurate.
Many researchers feel quality calcium supplementation is essential for both young and old.
Supplemental calcium may significantly reduce the progression of bone loss already begun in postmenopausal women. The researchers concluded that complete calcium supplementation may slow or reduce bone loss. Recent food surveys demonstrate a majority of North-American men, women and children fail to consume adequate amounts of certain minerals including calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, and manganese. Considering the important role these minerals play in building and maintaining strong and healthy bones, proper bone nourishment is essential for all North-Americans. Reduce excessive protein and fat intake, and eliminate junk food from your diet.