Bones’ nutritional needs

Aliqui and De Ocampo.

A bone-healthy diet can protect seniors against osteoporosis. But, whether you’re young or old, the right nutrition can make a difference to your bone health. This is the crucial message of a scientific review published recently in the journal, Osteoporosis International, by leading bone and nutrition experts for World Osteoporosis Day, on Oct. 20.

The study places its emphasis on calcium, vitamin D and protein, and shows how adequate nutritional intake supports good bone health. Cyrus Cooper of the International Osteoporosis Foundation explains, “This report shows the role nutrition plays in the development of a healthy skeleton, even before birth.”

Lifestyle factors such as excessive alcohol consumption, smoking and a very high or low body mass index elevate fracture risk for a substantial number of people. Physician Gemiliano Aliqui, president of the Philippine Association of Nutrition, and product manager Rhoda de Ocampo of Pfizer encourage people to exercise and follow a bone-healthy diet.

In 2009, as I was getting off a boat in Sabtang, a ferocious wave slammed the vessel, and my left leg was caught between it and the loading dock. I fell into the sea with life vest on—and passed out!

I was taken back to Basco, where my leg was put in a cast. The therapy went on for six months. Thank goodness my bones are good, given my age. My health “regimen” includes veggies, fruits, weekly injections of vitamins C and B-plus.

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