Nutrition and Bone Health in the Elderly

  • Clifford J. Rosen
Chapter
Part of the Nutrition and Health book series (NH)

Abstract

Osteoporosis, a common disorder of women and men, is associated with significant morbidity, mortality, and health care costs. Age-related fractures are the most common manifestation of osteoporosis and are usually manifested after menopause in women, and in the seventh or eighth decade in men. Biochemical, biomechanical, and nonskeletal factors contribute to fragility fractures in the elderly. However, nutritional determinants also play a key role in both the pathophysiology and treatment of individuals with osteoporosis. Traditionally, calcium has been considered the key nutrient for optimal skeletal growth and maintenance. However, recent evidence has emerged linking vitamins D, K, and A to the pathogenesis of osteoporosis, especially in elderly individuals. Additionally, adequate protein intake is essential for bone formation, particularly in vulnerable populations residing in nursing homes and assisted-living facilities. Preservation of skeletal architecture is also dependent on maintenance of muscle mass, another soft tissue component that is influenced by nutrient intake. This chapter will focus on the skeletal and nonskeletal pathways that contribute to fractures in the older individual and the role of nutrition in treating and preventing age-related osteoporosis. However, it should be noted that the pathogenesis of skeletal frailty is complex and centers on the entire organism, not just bone. For example, fractures generally result from falls; falling can be related to poor muscle strength, which in turn can be strongly influenced by nutritional intake.

Keywords

Bone Mineral Density Bone Loss Bone Resorption Bone Health Adequate Protein Intake 
These keywords were added by machine and not by the authors. This process is experimental and the keywords may be updated as the learning algorithm improves.
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© Springer Science+Business Media New York 2004

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  • Clifford J. Rosen

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