Are you looking for what bone health vitamins, minerals, and foods can help you maintain healthy bones?
Having healthy bones is crucial to our daily lives. But, keeping them in tip-top shape is often overlooked. Sometimes, we forget to eat enough food and get enough essential vitamins for bone health.
For this reason, many people suffer from unhealthy and brittle bones. This may soon lead to osteoporosis. The elder population, most especially, is at even more risk in developing this disease.
As we age, our bone density also changes. And while this change is natural and inevitable, there are ways to delay it. By eating the right foods and getting enough vitamins, bone health care should be easy.
But before anything else…
What is Bone Health?
Bone health refers to the condition of our bones, otherwise known as the skeletal system. As we all know, these bones play a key role in our bodies.
Bones act as the “frame” of the body. They keep everything intact.
Our bones also provide structure to our bodies and protect our organs. It is also where our muscles adhere to.
Generally speaking, bone and joint health come hand in hand.
Why is Bone Health Important?
Having strong and healthy bones is crucial to our health and well-being. It supports our bodies in everything that we do. Our bones are what allow us to stand still and move.
To put things in a simpler manner, bone health is important because our bodies depend on it. Poor bone health also equals poor functionality.
It’s never too late to take care of your bones.
Keep them in tip-top shape with the following…
7 of the Best Foods for Bone Health
And while we can’t stop aging, bone loss and deterioration doesn’t have to happen right away.
Sure, having healthy bones may seem like a tough task to maintain, but it isn’t. Sometimes, what we need to keep them strong and healthy lies in what we eat.
With that said, here are seven of the best foods for bone health.
1. Leafy Greens
Leafy greens are among the healthiest foods for the bones.((Karpouzos, A., Diamantis, E., Farmaki, P., Savvanis, S., & Troupis, T. (2017, December 31). Nutritional Aspects of Bone Health and Fracture Healing. Journal of Osteoporosis. doi: 10.1155/2017/4218472)) These vegetables are full of big amounts of vitamin K and calcium.((Yang, J., Punshon, T., Guerinot, M. L., & Hirsch, K. D. (2012, August). Plant Calcium Content: Ready to Remodel. Nutrients, 4(8), 1120-1136. doi: 10.3390/nu4081120))
Both of these micronutrients are beneficial to bone health.((Fusaro, M., Mereu, M. C., Aghi, A., Iervasi, G., & Gallieni, M. (2017, May – August). Vitamin K and bone. Clinical Cases In Mineral And Bone Metabolism, 14(2), 200-206. doi: 10.11138/ccmbm/2017.14.1.200))
Bok choy, kale, spinach, and other leafy greens have ample amounts of calcium. They are also loaded with other minerals that are good for the bones.((Yang, J., Punshon, T., Guerinot, M. L., & Hirsch, K. D. (2012, August). Plant Calcium Content: Ready to Remodel. Nutrients, 4(8), 1120-1136. doi: 10.3390/nu4081120)) Vitamin K, phosphorus, and magnesium are also present in these greens. These nutrients all have positive impacts on bone health.((Yang, J., Punshon, T., Guerinot, M. L., & Hirsch, K. D. (2012, August). Plant Calcium Content: Ready to Remodel. Nutrients, 4(8), 1120-1136. doi: 10.3390/nu4081120))
Moreover, a study on elderly women confirmed the impact of leafy greens on bone health. It noted that consuming more leafy greens may have a life-long effect on bone turnover.((Higgs, J., Derbyshire, E., & Styles, K. (2017., June 23). Nutrition and osteoporosis prevention for the orthopedic surgeon. doi: 10.1302/2058-5241.2.160079))
2. Beans and Lentils
Beans and lentils are another food that is beneficial to the bones.((Higgs, J., Derbyshire, E., & Styles, K. (2017., June 23). Nutrition and osteoporosis prevention for the orthopedic surgeon. doi: 10.1302/2058-5241.2.160079)) They are high in protein, fiber, and essential micronutrients.
Beans and lentils are also great sources of iron and zinc. They are even packed with magnesium, phosphorus, and folate.((Polak, R., Phillips, E. M., & Campbell, A. (2015, October). Legumes: Health Benefits and Culinary Approaches to Increase Intake. Clinical Diabetes, 33(4), 198-205. doi: 10.2337/diaclin.33.4.198)) Beans and lentils are also an excellent source of calcium.
A study noted that eating beans showed improvements in patients with osteoporosis.((Higgs, J., Derbyshire, E., & Styles, K. (2017., June 23). Nutrition and osteoporosis prevention for the orthopedic surgeon. doi: 10.1302/2058-5241.2.160079))
But, do take note that beans contain phytates. Phytates are natural compounds that may interfere with calcium absorption.((Heaney, R. P., Weaver, C. M., & Firzsimmons, M. L. (1991, March). Soybean phytate content: effect on calcium absorption. retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2000830))
One way to lessen the phytate content of beans is by soaking them in water for several hours before cooking.
3. Milk
Milk is a no-brainer when it comes to foods that promote bone health. This dairy staple is an excellent source of calcium and other essential vitamins.
Additionally, milk is one of the best and most affordable sources of calcium. It is easy to find and is a part of everyone’s grocery list.
A 100ml serving of milk has about 122mg of calcium.((Rozenberg, S., Body, J. J., Bruyere, O., Bergmann, P., Brandi, M. L., Cooper, C.,… Reginster, J. Y. (2015, October 7). Effects of Dairy Products Consumption on Health: Benefits and Beliefs — A Commentary from the Belgian Bone Club and the European Society for Clinical and Economic Aspects of Osteoporosis, Osteoarthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases. doi: 10.1007/s00223-015-0062-x)) And because it is a dairy product, its calcium content is well-absorbed by the body.((Rozenberg, S., Body, J. J., Bruyere, O., Bergmann, P., Brandi, M. L., Cooper, C.,… Reginster, J. Y. (2015, October 7). Effects of Dairy Products Consumption on Health: Benefits and Beliefs — A Commentary from the Belgian Bone Club and the European Society for Clinical and Economic Aspects of Osteoporosis, Osteoarthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases. doi: 10.1007/s00223-015-0062-x))
Moreover, milk is a great source of protein, potassium, and magnesium. Zinc and vitamin D are also present, among others. Combined, these micronutrients contribute to better bone health.((Rozenberg, S., Body, J. J., Bruyere, O., Bergmann, P., Brandi, M. L., Cooper, C.,… Reginster, J. Y. (2015, October 7). Effects of Dairy Products Consumption on Health: Benefits and Beliefs — A Commentary from the Belgian Bone Club and the European Society for Clinical and Economic Aspects of Osteoporosis, Osteoarthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases. doi: 10.1007/s00223-015-0062-x))
4. Almonds
Almonds make about the perfect snack if you are looking to pop in extra calcium into your diet. Additionally, eating these nuts links to better bone density.((Platt, I. D., Josse, A. R., Kendall, C. W., Jenkins, D. J., & El-Sohemy, A. (2011, July). Postprandial effects of almond consumption on human osteoclast precursors— an ex vivo study. retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20947104))
Almonds are also very rich in magnesium. Magnesium itself is good for the bones.((Della Pepa, G., & Brandi, M. L. (2017 February, 10). Microelements for bone boost: the last but not the least. Clinical Cases In Mineral And Bone Metabolism, 13(3). 181-185. doi: 10.11138/ccmbm/2016.13.3.181))
Moreover, almonds are full of protein, with about 23g per 100g serving. Protein is a macronutrient that is essential to bone development.((Ros, E. (2010, June 24). Health Benefits of Nut Consumption. Nutrients, 2(7), 652-682. doi: 10.3390/nu2070652))
5. Whey Protein
Adding more protein to your diet is one of the keys to healthier bones. An extra serving or two may do the bones even better.
Protein and bone health are two correlated factors, and here’s why:
- Protein is a macronutrient that contributes to bone growth and development. It is important, especially in our younger years.((Higgs, J., Derbyshire, E., & Styles, K. (2017, June 23). Nutrition and osteoporosis prevention for the orthopaedic surgeon. Effort Open Reviews, 2(6), 300-308. doi: 10.1302/2058-5241.2.160079))
- Protein is also essential to bone maintenance.((Higgs, J., Derbyshire, E., & Styles, K. (2017, June 23). Nutrition and osteoporosis prevention for the orthopaedic surgeon. Effort Open Reviews, 2(6), 300-308. doi: 10.1302/2058-5241.2.160079))
Whey protein is a product of milk, which is also good for the bones. It isn’t only a surefire way to consume more protein, whey is also full of essential amino acids. These amino acids are good for overall general health.((Sousa, G. T. D., Lira, F. S., Rosa, J. C., De Oliveira, E. P., Oyama, L. M., Santos, R. V., & Pimentel, G. D. (2012, July 10). Dietary whey protein lessens several risk factors for metabolic diseases: a review. doi: 10.1186/1476-511X-11-67))
6. Salmon
If you’re looking for a non-dairy food that is good for the bones, then look no further than salmon. Salmon is a fish packed with protein and calcium. Both of these nutrients are essential to bone health((Della Pepa, G., & Brandi, M. L. (2017 February, 10). Microelements for bone boost: the last but not the least. Clinical Cases In Mineral And Bone Metabolism, 13(3). 181-185. doi: 10.11138/ccmbm/2016.13.3.181))
Salmon is also a fatty fish that boasts good amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. The fish itself also contains vitamin D. This vitamin help assist in calcium absorption.((Della Pepa, G., & Brandi, M. L. (2017 February, 10). Microelements for bone boost: the last but not the least. Clinical Cases In Mineral And Bone Metabolism, 13(3). 181-185. doi: 10.11138/ccmbm/2016.13.3.181))
One research studied the possible health impact of salmon consumption on osteoporosis patients. The research concluded that the calcium content in the salmon may soothe osteoporosis. The patients who participated also experienced an increase in bone density.((Erlacher, L., Kettenbach, J., Kiener, H., Graninger, W., Kainberger, F., & Pietschmann, P. (1997, April 25). Salmon calcitonin and calcium in the treatment of male osteoporosis: the effect on bone mineral density. retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9163888))
7. Yogurt
Yogurt is another dairy product that is rich in calcium. It’s a sweet and tangy treat filled with live, healthy bacteria. A cup is also full of phosphorus, potassium, and B vitamins.
Research on bone mineral density showed that yogurt consumption may benefit bone health. Although, it is worth noting that yogurt didn’t have a significant effect on spinal bone density.((Higgs, J., Derbyshire, E., & Styles, K. (2017., June 23). Nutrition and osteoporosis prevention for the orthopaedic surgeon. doi: 10.1302/2058-5241.2.160079))
Yogurt is also found to be helpful when it comes to metabolism. One study showed its possible effects in improving both diet and metabolism.((Wang, H., Livingston, K. A., Fox, C. S., Meigs, J. B., & Jacques, P. F. (2013, January). Yogurt consumption is associated with better diet quality and metabolic profile in American men and women. retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23351406))
Keep the risk of osteoporosis at bay with these…
Bone Health Vitamins and Minerals
A well-balanced diet, without a doubt, is the key to good health. But what most of us don’t know is that, sometimes, the food we eat isn’t enough.
The body needs more than only calories and macronutrients to function. And for our bones to be in their best shapes, certain micronutrients are necessary.
Unfortunately, not everyone takes bone health in a serious manner. Many of us miss the right amounts of bone health vitamins and minerals in our daily food intake.
That said, don’t let your bones suffer because you’re not getting the right nutrients. Here are some of the most essential bone health vitamins and minerals.
Calcium
Making it on top of the list is calcium. This mineral is best known for its vital role in bone health.
Calcium and bone health, in general, are inseparable. Calcium is the main bone-forming mineral as 99% of the body’s calcium is present in the skeleton.((Della Pepa, G., & Brandi, M. L. (2017 February, 10). Microelements for bone boost: the last but not the least. Clinical Cases In Mineral And Bone Metabolism, 13(3). 181-185. doi: 10.11138/ccmbm/2016.13.3.181))
Higher calcium intake is also related to better bone mass and development. Several studies show the positive impacts of calcium in bone health. Most of these studies suggest an intake of 500-1000mg a day to prevent bone loss.((Della Pepa, G., & Brandi, M. L. (2017 February, 10). Microelements for bone boost: the last but not the least. Clinical Cases In Mineral And Bone Metabolism, 13(3). 181-185. doi: 10.11138/ccmbm/2016.13.3.181))
A recent analysis confirmed that increased calcium intake may benefit bone mineral density. The analysis showed about 0.6-1.8% increase in bone mineral density. This increase may occur within a period of one to two years.((Della Pepa, G., & Brandi, M. L. (2017 February, 10). Microelements for bone boost: the last but not the least. Clinical Cases In Mineral And Bone Metabolism, 13(3). 181-185. doi: 10.11138/ccmbm/2016.13.3.181))
The recommended dietary allowance for calcium is anywhere between 1,000mg to 1,300mg. This amount of calcium is enough to keep the bones healthy.((Della Pepa, G., & Brandi, M. L. (2017 February, 10). Microelements for bone boost: the last but not the least. Clinical Cases In Mineral And Bone Metabolism, 13(3). 181-185. doi: 10.11138/ccmbm/2016.13.3.181))
Boron
Boron is a trace mineral with diverse roles in metabolism. It also happens to benefit bone health.((Della Pepa, G., & Brandi, M. L. (2017 February, 10). Microelements for bone boost: the last but not the least. Clinical Cases In Mineral And Bone Metabolism, 13(3). 181-185. doi: 10.11138/ccmbm/2016.13.3.181))
Boron intake is crucial to mineral metabolism and decreasing the risk of osteoporosis. Deprivation of this mineral may have a link to bone loss.((Della Pepa, G., & Brandi, M. L. (2017 February, 10). Microelements for bone boost: the last but not the least. Clinical Cases In Mineral And Bone Metabolism, 13(3). 181-185. doi: 10.11138/ccmbm/2016.13.3.181))
An animal study showed that boron may have the ability to increase bone strength. And on the one hand, research showed that boron deprivation increased urinary calcium excretion. This may result in bone loss and other bone-related diseases.((Della Pepa, G., & Brandi, M. L. (2017 February, 10). Microelements for bone boost: the last but not the least. Clinical Cases In Mineral And Bone Metabolism, 13(3). 181-185. doi: 10.11138/ccmbm/2016.13.3.181))
The recommended daily intake of boron for bone health is currently unestablished. But a recent study reported that 3-4mg a day may have the ability to improve bone mineral density.((Della Pepa, G., & Brandi, M. L. (2017 February, 10). Microelements for bone boost: the last but not the least. Clinical Cases In Mineral And Bone Metabolism, 13(3). 181-185. doi: 10.11138/ccmbm/2016.13.3.181))
Magnesium
Magnesium is another mineral essential to bone health. In fact, about 60% of the magnesium in the body is in the bones, along with calcium and phosphate.
Several studies recognized the role of magnesium for bone health. One study showed that magnesium may restrict the development of osteoporosis.((Della Pepa, G., & Brandi, M. L. (2017 February, 10). Microelements for bone boost: the last but not the least. Clinical Cases In Mineral And Bone Metabolism, 13(3). 181-185. doi: 10.11138/ccmbm/2016.13.3.181))
One study also demonstrated the ability of the mineral to increase bone strength. It may also help improve bone structure.((Della Pepa, G., & Brandi, M. L. (2017 February, 10). Microelements for bone boost: the last but not the least. Clinical Cases In Mineral And Bone Metabolism, 13(3). 181-185. doi: 10.11138/ccmbm/2016.13.3.181))
Moreover, magnesium deficiency is also linked to inflammation and bone loss. Low magnesium levels also affect bone density.((Della Pepa, G., & Brandi, M. L. (2017 February, 10). Microelements for bone boost: the last but not the least. Clinical Cases In Mineral And Bone Metabolism, 13(3). 181-185. doi: 10.11138/ccmbm/2016.13.3.181))
A dosage of 250mg per day of magnesium is enough to support good bone health.((Della Pepa, G., & Brandi, M. L. (2017 February, 10). Microelements for bone boost: the last but not the least. Clinical Cases In Mineral And Bone Metabolism, 13(3). 181-185. doi: 10.11138/ccmbm/2016.13.3.181))
Zinc
Zinc is yet another important micronutrient for health. It is also very essential to bone health.
Studies showed that zinc deficiency may relate to the loss of bone mass. These studies also noted that zinc plays a key role in bone metabolism.((Della Pepa, G., & Brandi, M. L. (2017 February, 10). Microelements for bone boost: the last but not the least. Clinical Cases In Mineral And Bone Metabolism, 13(3). 181-185. doi: 10.11138/ccmbm/2016.13.3.181))
Zinc also plays a key role in the regulation of bone homeostasis. Bone homeostasis is a process wherein the bones in the body undergo remodeling.((Della Pepa, G., & Brandi, M. L. (2017 February, 10). Microelements for bone boost: the last but not the least. Clinical Cases In Mineral And Bone Metabolism, 13(3). 181-185. doi: 10.11138/ccmbm/2016.13.3.181))
The recommended daily intake for zinc is 12mg a day for general health purposes. As for bone health, a dosage of 15mg a day is enough.
Iron
Iron is an essential mineral to the body. It plays roles in oxygen transportation and enzymatic systems in the body.((Della Pepa, G., & Brandi, M. L. (2017 February, 10). Microelements for bone boost: the last but not the least. Clinical Cases In Mineral And Bone Metabolism, 13(3). 181-185. doi: 10.11138/ccmbm/2016.13.3.181))
As for bone health, Iron assists in collagen synthesis and vitamin D metabolism. Iron deficiency may impact these processes in negative ways.((Della Pepa, G., & Brandi, M. L. (2017 February, 10). Microelements for bone boost: the last but not the least. Clinical Cases In Mineral And Bone Metabolism, 13(3). 181-185. doi: 10.11138/ccmbm/2016.13.3.181))
In fact, an animal study showed that iron-deficiency may lead to poor bone density.((Della Pepa, G., & Brandi, M. L. (2017 February, 10). Microelements for bone boost: the last but not the least. Clinical Cases In Mineral And Bone Metabolism, 13(3). 181-185. doi: 10.11138/ccmbm/2016.13.3.181))
In humans, iron deficiency or anemia may affect bone resorption in negative ways. Bone resorption is an important process wherein the bones and tissues undergo remodeling.((Della Pepa, G., & Brandi, M. L. (2017 February, 10). Microelements for bone boost: the last but not the least. Clinical Cases In Mineral And Bone Metabolism, 13(3). 181-185. doi: 10.11138/ccmbm/2016.13.3.181))
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is among the best vitamins for bone health. Combined with calcium, vitamin D does wonders for the bones.
The body utilizes vitamin D to support bone formation and structure. It also imposes benefits for the brain, skin, and immune system.((Laird, E., Ward, M., McSorley, E., Strain, J. J., & Wallace, J. (2010, July 5). Vitamin D and Bone Health; Potential Mechanisms. doi: 10.3390/nu2070693))
Additionally, vitamin D deficiency may speed up bone resorption. Vitamin D deficiency may also impose risks of osteoporosis. Moreover, those who are vitamin D deficient may also be at higher risk of obtaining fractures.((Laird, E., Ward, M., McSorley, E., Strain, J. J., & Wallace, J. (2010, July 5). Vitamin D and Bone Health; Potential Mechanisms. doi: 10.3390/nu2070693))
Another study concluded that vitamin D deficiency may even result in muscle weakness. That said, vitamin D supplementation is not only beneficial to the bones but to the muscles as well.((Laird, E., Ward, M., McSorley, E., Strain, J. J., & Wallace, J. (2010, July 5). Vitamin D and Bone Health; Potential Mechanisms. doi: 10.3390/nu2070693))
The optimal recommended intake of vitamin D is 600 to 800IU per day. Although, higher levels may provide more benefit to bone health.
Looking for a more natural approach to achieve healthier bones besides bone health vitamins?
How about herbs for bone health…
Here Are 4 Natural Herbs for Bone Health
Traditional medicine practices healing through the use of natural roots and herbs. This type of medical practice is still popular nowadays.
For people who want a more natural approach when it comes to bone health, this may be the key. Below are some of the popular herbs that are essential to keeping the bones healthy.
Tongkat Ali
Tongkat ali has been found to be beneficial in increasing the level of testosterone in the body which invariably leads to a significant improvement in the health of bones.((George, A., & Henkel, R. (2014, January 6). Pjytoandrogenic properties of Eurycoma longifolia as natural alternative to testosterone replacement therapy. doi: 10.1111/and.12214))
One study using rats examined the use of Eurycoma longifolia extract as an alternative option for the prevention of degenerative bone changes in osteoporosis due to androgen deficiency.((Jayusman, P., Mohamed, I., Alias, E., Mohamed, N., & Shuid, A. (2018). The Effects of Quassinoid-Rich Eurycoma longifolia Extract on Bone Turnover and Histomorphometry Indices in the Androgen-Deficient Osteoporosis Rat Model. Nutrients, 10(7), 799; doi:10.3390/nu10070799)) The authors felt that their study was successful and further investigation is warranted to clarify the exact mechanism by which the extract exerted its anti-osteoporotic effects.
Maca
Maca is a natural root that is full of essential vitamins and minerals. It is a natural herb that is native to Peru.
Maca is popular in traditional Peruvian medicine. The root itself may have the ability to regulate and support brain health. It may also improve fertility, among other benefits.((Gonzales, G. F., Villaorduna, L., Gasco, M., Rubio, J., & Gonzales, C. (2014). [Maca (Lepidium meyenni Walp), a review of its biological properties]. retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24718534))
While it’s popular for its positive impact on hormones, Maca may also benefit bone health. Research showed that maca intake may improve bone mineral density.((Meissner, H. O., Mscisz, A., Reich-Bilinska, H., Mrozikiewicz, P. Bobkiewicz-Kozlowska, T., Kedzia, B., Lowicka, A., & Barchia, I. (2006, December). Hormone-Balancing Effect of Pre-Gelatinized Organic Maca (Lepidium previanum Chacon): (III) Clinical responses of early-postmenopausal women to Maca in double blind, randomized, Placebo-controlled, crossover configuration, outpatient study. retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3614644/))
Korean Red Ginseng
Korean red ginseng is among the most popular herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Also called Panax ginseng, Korean red ginseng has many active ingredients.((Siddiqi, M. H., Siddiqi, M. Z., Ahn, S., Kang, S., Kang, S., Kim, Y. J., Natarajan, S….& Yang, D. C. (2013, July). Ginseng saponins and the treatment of osteoporosis: mini literature review. doi: 10.5142/jgr.2013.37.261))
Among these are steroidal saponins and ginsenosides. Combined, saponins and ginsenosides may have antioxidant, anticancer, and hormone-stimulating effects.((Siddiqi, M. H., Siddiqi, M. Z., Ahn, S., Kang, S., Kang, S., Kim, Y. J., Natarajan, S….& Yang, D. C. (2013, July). Ginseng saponins and the treatment of osteoporosis: mini literature review. doi: 10.5142/jgr.2013.37.261))
Aside from being therapeutic, Korean red ginseng may also promote bone health. One research examined its possible effects on treating osteoporosis.((Siddiqi, M. H., Siddiqi, M. Z., Ahn, S., Kang, S., Kang, S., Kim, Y. J., Natarajan, S….& Yang, D. C. (2013, July). Ginseng saponins and the treatment of osteoporosis: mini literature review. doi: 10.5142/jgr.2013.37.261))
One study looked at the possible role of Korean red ginseng in osteoporosis. The said study demonstrated that the herb may increase the osteogenesis of bones. Osteogenesis is a process otherwise known as bone remodeling.((Siddiqi, M. H., Siddiqi, M. Z., Ahn, S., Kang, S., Kang, S., Kim, Y. J., Natarajan, S….& Yang, D. C. (2013, July). Ginseng saponins and the treatment of osteoporosis: mini literature review. doi: 10.5142/jgr.2013.37.261))
The exact role of Korean red ginseng on the bone mineral structure is currently unknown. But, it is worth debating that this herb may have positive impacts on bone health.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is a natural herb famous in Ayurvedic medicine. It also goes by the name Withania somnifera. Known for its wide array of health benefits, Ashwagandha is native to the dry soils of India and the Middle East.((Khendikar, V. Kushwaha, P., Gautam, J., Verma, A., Changkija, B., Kumar, A.,…& Trivedi, R. (2013, August 22). Withaferin A: a proteasomal inhibitor promotes healing after injury and exerts anabolic effect on osteoporotic bone. doi: 10.1038/cddis.2013.294))
Aside from its general healing properties, ashwagandha itself may also benefit the bones. One study found that the herb may help delay degenerative changes in the bones.((Khendikar, V. Kushwaha, P., Gautam, J., Verma, A., Changkija, B., Kumar, A.,…& Trivedi, R. (2013, August 22). Withaferin A: a proteasomal inhibitor promotes healing after injury and exerts anabolic effect on osteoporotic bone. doi: 10.1038/cddis.2013.294))
Another study showed that ashwagandha may promote healing after a bone injury. In the said study, the anabolic effects of withaferin A may repair osteoporotic bones. Withaferin A is a major component of ashwagandha.((Khendikar, V. Kushwaha, P., Gautam, J., Verma, A., Changkija, B., Kumar, A.,…& Trivedi, R. (2013, August 22). Withaferin A: a proteasomal inhibitor promotes healing after injury and exerts anabolic effect on osteoporotic bone. doi: 10.1038/cddis.2013.294))
Ashwagandha may also play a role in stimulating osteoblasts. Osteoblasts are cells that synthesize and regenerate the bones.((Khendikar, V. Kushwaha, P., Gautam, J., Verma, A., Changkija, B., Kumar, A.,…& Trivedi, R. (2013, August 22). Withaferin A: a proteasomal inhibitor promotes healing after injury and exerts anabolic effect on osteoporotic bone. doi: 10.1038/cddis.2013.294))
Ashwagandha may also have the ability to repress proteins that may cause inflammation. All these, in the long run, may benefit bone health, one way or another.((Khendikar, V. Kushwaha, P., Gautam, J., Verma, A., Changkija, B., Kumar, A.,…& Trivedi, R. (2013, August 22). Withaferin A: a proteasomal inhibitor promotes healing after injury and exerts anabolic effect on osteoporotic bone. doi: 10.1038/cddis.2013.294))
Conclusion
Aging and bone degeneration may seem inevitable. But, these factors shouldn’t come in the way of keeping our bones healthy. And while we can’t stop these natural processes, we may be able to delay them by adding in more bone health vitamins, minerals, and foods strategically throughout the week.
Keeping a healthy and balanced diet is among the keys to promote better bone health. Essentially, a diet rich in calcium and protein is also a plus.
And if the food we take doesn’t seem enough, vitamins and natural supplements are also an option. They work well in making sure that the body gets enough nutrients to get it going.
Remember, we only have one body and it is our sole responsibility to take good care of it.
