Bones are predominantly made up of calcium, a critical mineral for normal body processes; the skeleton is the storehouse for calcium. Our bones are constantly changing with a balance between accumulation and removal of calcium as needed by the body. Strong bones reflect how well this balance is achieved. Healthy bones are essential at all ages. Weak bones predispose to deformities and fractures, especially with old age. Our maximum bone size and strength or peak bone mass is determined by our genes, dietary calcium, exercise, and the presence or absence of other illnesses. The peak bone mass is usually achieved before 25 years of age; stronger the bones in childhood, better will be the peak bone strength. As one grows older, there is only limited capacity to improve our bone strength as loss of bone mass happens faster than deposition.

In this panel discussion, we will be focusing on the common factors that control bone health in children, risk factors for weak bones, and how to address them, and things we can do in our daily routine, diet, and lifestyle to provide children with stronger bones so that they can grow up to become adults with healthier bones.

FAQ’s

We will also address some FAQs that parents have –

1. Doc – my child is 1 year old and not walking yet. Should I give any supplements?

2. I feel my 18-month-old boy’s legs are not straight – they appear to be bent. Is this a concern?

3. Toe-walking / walking with legs wide apart / flat feet- is it a ‘bony’ problem?

4. Doc- should I do a Vitamin D test for my 5-year-old? She complains of leg pains in the evenings daily.

5. My teenager is into active sports. Should he be taking any nutritional supplements for his bones?