Age considerations in nutrient needs for bone health: Older adults

Abstract

Current knowledge of the relation between nutrition and bone health in the elderly is sufficient, if applied, to lead to a reduction in fractures in the aged of from 30-60%. The critical nutrients are calcium and vitamin D, and possibly phosphate as well. Additionally, nutritional measures, especially protein repletion, dramatically improve outcomes from hip fracture. Fortunately the indicated interventions have a favorable cost-benefit relationship, especially when skim milk is used as the source of the needed nutrients. © 1996 American College of Nutrition.