Childhood, adolescence and the teenage years are critical life stages for bone development, with about 90% of peak bone mass achieved by the late teens. Therefore, specific efforts should be made to address bone health during these stages of life. However, and also of significant importance, during later adulthood bone loss exceeds the rate of bone formation, and therefore efforts to address bone health are still required to slow down or delay the progression of bone loss. The key is following a ‘bone-friendly’ diet and lifestyle throughout life.

It is essential that during childhood, and indeed throughout life, that people consume a varied and balanced diet containing sufficient daily intakes of calcium and vitamin D. Also, throughout childhood, weight bearing exercises (exercise during which our bodies carry our weight e.g. dancing, jogging, etc.) and strengthening exercise (appropriate to the individual) can significantly benefit bone development and reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis in later life. Maintaining a physically active lifestyle and engaging in weight-bearing activities during adulthood remains important for bone health.