Source: MedicalNewsToday.com written by: Jenna Fletcher
Low bone density can increase the risk of fracture. People can increase their bone density through strength training, dietary choices, weight management, and other strategies.
Bone density changes over time. Throughout childhood, adolescence, and early adulthood, the bones absorb nutrients and minerals, gaining strength.
However, as a person enters their late 20s, they reach their peak bone mass, meaning they will no longer gain bone density.
The bones may lose density as a person continues to age. After menopause, in particular, a person becomes susceptible to osteoporosis. Osteoporosis can weaken the bones so much that they can break easily.
This article lists 11 ways to naturally improve bone density, including information on whether it can be too late to increase bone density.
1. Weightlifting and strength training
Studies show that weightlifting and strength training can help promote new bone growth and maintain existing bone structure.
A 2018 review of exercise and bone density in people with osteoporosis suggests that weight bearing aerobic exercise alone can limit bone mass loss, while strength and resistance exercises can increase muscle and bone mass density.
Review authors highlight that strength and resistance exercises are site-specific. They only increase muscle and bone mass density in areas the exercises stimulate.
Benefits of weight and strength training include:
increased bone mineral density
increased bone size
protection against bone loss
improved balance and coordination
increased muscle mass
2. Eat more vegetables
Vegetables provide important vitamins, minerals, and fiber. A 2020 review highlights the importance of an overall balanced diet low in processed foods for bone health. However, the review authors suggest further research is necessary.
Research in a 2021 review highlights a positive association between bone mass density and fruit and vegetable consumption, which may be due to vitamin intake.
The authors also highlight research suggesting vitamin C intake may improve bone health and protect against osteoporosis. They list the following vegetables as good sources of vitamin C:
potatoes
green or red peppers
broccoli
Brussels sprouts
Another 2021 review suggests that consuming fewer than five servings of fruit or vegetables per day increases the risk of hip fractures.
3. Consume calcium throughout the day
Calcium is the primary nutrient for bone health. As the bones break down and grow each day, it is essential to get enough calcium.
The best way to absorb calcium is to consume foods containing calcium every day. Getting calcium through the diet is best unless a doctor advises otherwise.
Foods rich in calcium include:
milk
cheese
yogurt
some leafy greens, such as kale
beans
sardines
4. Eat foods rich in vitamins D and K
Vitamin K2 is essential to bone health. It reduces calcium loss and helps minerals bind to the bones.
Foods that contain vitamin K2 include:
sauerkraut
cheese
natto, a soybean product
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium. People with vitamin D deficiencies have a higher risk of losing bone mass.
A person can absorb vitamin D through moderate sun exposure. Without sufficient vitamin D, a person has a higher risk of developing bone disease, such as osteoporosis or osteopenia.
5. Maintain a moderate weight
A moderate weight is essential for bone density. People with underweight have a higher risk of developing bone disease. Overweight and obesity put additional stress on the bones.
Doctors recommend people avoid rapid weight loss and cycling between gaining and losing weight. As a person loses weight, they can lose bone density, but gaining back the weight will not restore bone density. This reduction in density can lead to weaker bones.
6. Avoid a low calorie diet
Super low calorie diets can lead to health problems, including bone density loss.
Before restricting calories, discuss calorie needs with a qualified healthcare professional, such as a primary care doctor or registered dietitian, to determine a safe target number of calories to consume.
Any diet needs to balance protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals for optimal health.
7. Eat more protein
Protein plays an essential role in bone health and density.
A 2022 cross-sectional study examined bone mass and dietary protein intake in 1,570 older adults. Researchers associated higher bone mass density with higher intakes of total and animal protein.
However, they associated lower bone mass density with plant protein intake. Researchers call for further studies, particularly into how a plant-based diet may affect bone health and density.
People can talk with a doctor before significantly altering their protein intake.
8. Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids
Research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids play a role in maintaining bone density and overall bone health.
Omega-3 fatty acids are present in a variety of foods, such as:
salmon
mackerel
nuts
seeds
People can consume these fatty acids through their diet or supplements.
9. Eat foods rich in magnesium and zinc
Like calcium, magnesium and zinc are minerals that support bone health and density.
Magnesium helps activate vitamin D so it can promote calcium absorption. Zinc exists in the bones. It promotes bone growth and helps prevent the bones from breaking down.
Foods rich in magnesium and zinc include:
nuts
legumes
seeds
whole grains
10. Avoid smoking
Many people associate smoking with lung cancer and breathing issues, but smoking can also increase the risk of conditions such as osteoporosis and bone fractures.
To support healthy bone density, a person can avoid or quit smoking, especially during their teens and young adulthood.
11. Avoid heavy drinking
In moderation, alcohol consumption may not significantly affect a person’s bone health.
However, long-term heavy drinking can lead to poor calcium absorption, a decrease in bone density, and the development of osteoporosis later in life.
Moderate alcohol consumption is considered two drinks or fewer per day for males and one drink or fewer per day for females.
Is it too late to build bone density?
Although the best time to influence peak bone mass and build bone density is from childhood to early adulthood, people can take steps at every age to improve bone health and reduce bone density loss.
Peak bone mass occurs in younger adults. After this point, people gradually lose bone mass.
However, adults and older adults can take the following steps to minimize bone loss:
get at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week
consume 1,000 milligrams (mg) of calcium daily, or 1,200 mg for females over 50 years and anyone over 70 years
get 1,000 international units (IU) of vitamin D daily, or 800 IU for people over 70 years
Frequently asked questions
What is the fastest way to improve bone density?
Strength training exercises can increase bone density in specific parts of the body in the short and medium term. However, people need to continue exercising regularly to maintain bone health in the long term.
Is it possible to rebuild bone density?
Bone mass peaks in young adults, usually between 25 and 30 years old. After 40 years old, people start to lose bone mass. However, they can reduce this loss by exercising regularly and eating a balanced, nutrient-dense diet.
Which foods increase bone density?
Dietary intake of calcium and vitamin D is vital for bone health. Foods that contain these nutrients include:
fish, such as salmon, tuna, and trout
leafy green vegetables
dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt
Some manufacturers may fortify certain foods, such as breakfast cereals, with vitamin D.
Summary
Bone density develops throughout a person’s early life, peaking in their late 20s. To support healthy bone density, it is important to consume plenty of calcium, vitamin D, protein, and vegetables.
It is also important to avoid smoking and heavy alcohol use. Taking these steps can help support bone density throughout adulthood.
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