Bone Strength

There are 206 bones in the human body. They are made of a mineral matrix, largely calcium, phosphate and protein.

Bones grow rapidly during childhood and adolescence. In fact the skeleton increases in mass seven fold between birth and puberty and a further three fold during adolescence.

Peak bone mass and strength increases in childhood reaching a maximum in early adulthood. As childhood and the teen years are when bones are growing the most, it is important to make sure children and adolescents get plenty of calcium every day. However, adults also need plenty of calcium to help slow the loss of bone mineral and strength that occurs naturally with ageing.

Milk is rich in calcium. It also provides high quality protein, phosphorus and a range of other vitamins and minerals. These are essential for bones and teeth.

Note: references are available on request.

Development of Normal Bone Mass