Healthy Bone Formation Begins Early in Life

The development, progression, and severity of osteroporosis depends on numerous factors, one of which is early bone formation. The amount of healthy bone formed during the first 25 or 30 years of life can dramatically influence the onset and outcome of osteopenia and osteoporosis. For this reason, it is crucial to begin caring for your bones early in life by ensuring adequate calcium intake, exercise, and diet.

Bone is a type of hard connective tissue that consists of a network of collagen fibers and mineral salts. This combination is what gives bones the density and strength needed to support the rest of the human body. Strong, healthy bones protect vital organs, support the body's muscles, and are essential to all aspects of mobility. If something interferes with normal bone formation during childhood, the consequences can be devastating to future independence and overall health.

Normal and Abnormal Bone Formation

Normal bone formation begins with the rapid development of bone before birth and during infancy. The process slows somewhat during early childhood, until it increases again during adolescence. By the age of 18 years, the majority of bone formation is complete, with only a small amount of mass added until near the age of 30 years.

A number of factors contribute to the rapid formation of bone early in life, including the level of certain hormones, such as estrogen in females, testosterone in males, and growth hormones. Environmental factors also influence early bone formation, and too little physical activity or poor nutrition during childhood and early adulthood may prevent normal bone growth and result in less dense bones later in life.

Children and teenagers with dietary restrictions or dairy allergies are typically deficient in calcium and other vitamins and minerals necessary to the proper development of bone. Smoking may also be responsible for abnormal bone formation, and teenagers who suffer from a significant illness during periods of rapid bone growth may show signs of decreased bone density. All of these factors contribute to an increased risk of developing osteopenia or osteoporosis.

Whenever possible, children and teenagers should eat a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, get regular exercise, and be allowed a healthy amount of exposure to the sun. Calcium supplements may be beneficial to children with allergies or other dietary restrictions in order to prevent deficiency. Healthy bone formation is essential to strong, dense bones throughout life.