Bone forms the structure of our human bodies – the frame that holds everything in place, protecting our internal organs and facilitating our movements.
Bone is a specialised connective tissue made up of a matrix of protein (collagen), which forms a sort of scaffolding for the structure of the bones.
This matrix is mineralised by two main minerals:
- Calcium
- Phosphorus
Together, protein and minerals form the hard, rigid bone structure as we know it.
Nutrition and bone health
Nutrition plays a significant role in bone health. During the first three decades of life, adequate nutrition ensures that the structure of the bones is formed optimally with a high density to increase strength. This is when the peak bone mass is reached.
From 30 years onwards, we start to lose bone mass. However, proper nutrition can ensure that this process in slowed down.
Nutrients necessary for healthy bones
A balanced lifestyle, which should include healthy eating behaviours, not smoking and regular exercise, is beneficial for bone health.
Some nutrients are especially useful to improve bone density and strength and to limit bone mass loss. These nutrients include collagen, vitamins and minerals.
Collagen
As collagen forms an integral part of the bone matrix, it is easy to see why it is so important that our bodies produce adequate amounts of this protein. As we age, our bodies gradually start producing less collagen.
Research has shown that collagen supplementation, especially collagen hydrolysate, may reduce the risk of bone disorders by inhibiting bone breakdown and thus maintaining bone strength.
Vitamins D and C
Vitamin D plays many roles in promoting bone health. Vitamin D increases the absorption of calcium and phosphorusthrough the intestinal tract and kidneys and maintains the balance of these minerals in the blood.
Vitamin C, on the other hand, plays an important role in the production of collagen by the body. Without vitamin C, we cannot produce collagen.
Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium
Calcium, phosphorus and magnesium are minerals responsible for bone density and strength as they crystalise on the collagen matrix. Adequate intakes of these minerals promote bone mineralisation and inhibits bone mass loss.
Bones also serve as a calcium storage unit where calcium can be extracted when dietary intake is insufficient to supple the body with its daily calcium requirements. It is therefore important to consume enough calcium daily to preserve the calcium quantities in the bone.
Where does FUTURELIFE® fit in?
FUTURELIFE® REPAIR FOOD™ Nutritional Supplement contains Acti8™, a formulation that consists of 8 nutrients scientifically proven to promote bone, muscle and joint health.
These nutrients include three branched- chain amino acids (BCAAs), 10g of hydrolysed collagen peptides, calcium, magnesium, vitamin C and vitamin D.
The unique combination of calcium and magnesium as well as vitamin C and D found in Acti8™ plays a key role in bone health and support.
In the range, you will also find REPAIR FOOD™ Protein Bar, which contains 10 g of Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides in a high protein, low GI bar, with a textured nougat centre enrobed in a deliciously decadent sugar-free dark chocolate coating.
Start today!
Nutrition clearly plays a crucial role in developing strong healthy bones as well as maintaining healthy bones during later years. Ensure that you consume enough of the aforementioned nutrients to optimise your bone mass, starting today!
Written by Bianca Tromp
