Our bones support us by protecting our brain, heart, and other organs from injury. That is why it’s never too early, or too late, to make bone health a priority.
Many nutrients work together to support growth and maintenance of bone in addition to physical activity. Getting enough calcium and vitamin D is especially important during childhood and adolescence to help support bone health. By the age of 18 years, at least 90% of bone mass has been established.
But it is equally important later in life to focus on good nutrition and physical activity as a way to help maintain bone mass. And this is true for both men and women.
Whether building bone mass earlier in life, or maintaining strong bones later in life, getting three daily servings of dairy, the top source for calcium and vitamin D, is so important and is recommended by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
