How Cheese Can Improve Your Bone Health

Ensuring the strength and vitality of our bones is of paramount importance – and this statement barely scratches the surface. Research suggests that individuals typically reach their peak bone mass by age 30.

However, we can significantly influence our bone health even after that mark, just by changing what we eat. By taking proactive measures, we can potentially mitigate or even prevent osteoporosis, a medical condition characterised by fragile and easily breakable bones.

This can be as easy as improving your diet and adding more natural sources of calcium to your meal in the form of tasty, creamy cheese. Cheese emerges as a powerhouse of essential nutrients essential for our well-being, boasting a rich composition of calcium, protein, vitamin B12, phosphorus, and zinc. These nutrients play pivotal roles in supporting bone health, muscle functionality, and overall vitality.

The core reason behind cheese being healthy is its calcium levels which can be as much as 721 mg per 100 grams of cheese (as per the USDA). Calcium, a vital mineral, contributes to the structural integrity and resilience of bones and teeth. Remarkably, approximately 98% of the body's calcium reservoir resides within the skeletal system, acting as a crucial resource for bodily calcium needs.

Cheese also has a substantial amount of Vitamin D, which while occurring naturally in select foods such as fish and mushrooms, is predominantly obtained through fortified food sources. Additionally, exposure to sunlight prompts the body to synthesise vitamin D. This essential vitamin enhances calcium absorption, fosters bone development and supports the function of muscles, nerves, and the immune system.

Throughout all stages of life, calcium and protein are pivotal for maintaining optimal bone health. This importance is especially pronounced during periods of bone development in childhood and adolescence, as well as in preserving bone strength and warding off osteoporosis among the elderly. Milk and dairy products stand out as exemplary sources of calcium, alongside other essential nutrients like potassium and magnesium, which exert significant influences on bone health. Boosting your daily intake of calcium and protein even as a child through dairy consumption can help enhance your bone health in the long run, thereby reducing the risk of fractures not only during childhood and adolescence but also in later years.

Ensuring that you incorporate these essential nutrients into your diet can play a significant role in safeguarding the strength and resilience of your bones, thereby contributing to your overall well-being. With the small addition of cheese to your regular diet you can improve your levels of both calcium and vitamin D which are imperative for promoting bone health.