Life-course approach to nutrition.

This narrative review summarizes the role that nutrition plays in the development and maintenance of a healthy skeleton throughout the life-course. Nutrition has a significant influence on bone health throughout the life cycle. This narrative review summarizes current knowledge and guidance pertaining to the development and maintenance of a healthy skeleton. The primary objectives proposed for good bone health at the various stages of life are the following: Children and adolescents: achieve genetic potential for peak bone mass Adults: avoid premature bone loss and maintain a healthy skeleton Seniors: prevention and treatment of osteoporosis Findings from cohort studies, randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, in addition to current dietary guidelines, are summarized with the intention of providing clear nutritional guidance for these populations and pregnant women.

Introduction

The purpose of this narrative review is to summarize the latest evidence relating to the nutritional needs of mothers, children and adolescents, adults and seniors, in relation to developing and maintaining a healthy skeleton. Expectant mothers must be sufficiently well-nourished to support an infant’s development in utero. The findings of mother-offspring cohort studies demonstrate the impact of maternal diet during pregnancy on bone health outcomes for children. An overview of current dietary guidelines for expectant mothers is provided. The primary objective relating to bone health during childhood and adolescence is achievement of an individual’s genetic potential for peak bone mass. Inadequate calcium intake and vitamin D insufficiency are widely documented among women of child-bearing age, pregnant women, and children and adolescents. The relationship between fracture incidence in childhood and later life is considered. The third section of the review focuses on the role of nutrition in maintaining bone mass during the adult decades from the twenties until the sixties, with particular attention to calcium, vitamin D and protein. The final section summarizes the international guidance on the specific nutritional needs of seniors. In conclusion, the place of nutrition in a broader systematic approach to fragility fracture care and prevention is also considered.

Maternal nutrition

The early life environment has long-term consequences for musculoskeletal development, beginning in utero. The relationship between birth weight and bone mass in adulthood was the subject of a systematic review and meta-analysis published in 2011 [1]. A 1-kg increase in birth weight was associated with a 1.49-g increase in lumbar spine bone mineral content (BMC) (95 % CI 0.77–2.21) and a 1.41-g increase in hip BMC (95 % CI 0.91–1.91). The primary studies used in the meta-analysis included adult men and women aged between 18 and 80 years across a range of settings. Thinness in childhood has been shown to be a risk factor for hip fracture in later life. Birth weight and length at birth were recorded, as well as height and weight throughout childhood for 6370 girls born in Helsinki between 1934 and 1944 [2]. The incidence of hip fracture in later life for this cohort was obtained from the National Finnish Hospital discharge register. Women who had been in the lowest quarter for change in Z-scores for body mass index (BMI) between 1 and 12 years of age had an 8.2-fold increase in hip fracture risk (95 % CI 1.9–35), as compared to those in the highest quarter (P < 0.001). Determination of the factors during pregnancy which may underpin these relationships has been conducted through studies of mother-offspring cohorts. To date, the following factors have been identified:

Maternal body build [3, 4]

Lifestyle [3, 4]

Physical activity [3]

Diet [5-10]

Vitamin D status [11, 12]

The role of maternal diet during pregnancy

Maternal diet during pregnancy is the main determinant of foetal nutrition and has been shown to influence bone mass during childhood. Investigators from several countries have evaluated the impact of maternal diet on bone health outcomes for children, the findings of which are summarized in Table 1 [5–10, 13]. Although the general pattern of maternal diet during gestation appears related to offspring bone development, with more healthy maternal diets associated with greater offspring bone mass [8], the gestational micronutrient that has been most strongly associated with offspring bone development is vitamin D.

Table 1

Summary of key findings from studies of maternal diet during pregnancy [5–10, 13]

Study	Country	Participants	Key findings
Jones et al. 2005 [5]	Australia (Southern Tasmania)	8-year-old male and female children with adequate maternal dietary information during 3rd trimester (n = 173)Estimated mean Ca intake for gravidae was 1905 mg/day (SDa 1310 mg)	+ Assoc between maternal Mg/P density in diet and lumbar spine (LS)/femoral neck (FN) BMD of children+ Assoc between K density and LS BMD− Assoc between fat density and LS BMD+ Assoc between Mg/P/protein density and total body (TB) BMD− Assoc between fat density and TB BMD(nb all P < 0.05)Linear regression model: no constituent sig assoc with FN BMD or TB BMD. P remained sig + assoc with LS BMD, fat remained − assoc
Yin et al. 2010 [9]	Australia (Southern Tasmania)	16-year-old male and female children with adequate maternal dietary information during 3rd trimester (n = 216)Estimated mean Ca intake for gravidae was 1677 mg/day (SD 841 mg)	+ Assoc between maternal Ca/Mg/P density in diet and LS BMD of children (all P < 0.05)Maternal milk intake + assoc with LS BMD (P < 0.05)− Assoc between fat density and FN BMD (P < 0.05) and LS BMD (P < 0.01)No nutrients assoc with TB BMD in either univariate or multivariate analysis
Petersen et al. 2015 [13]	Denmark	<16-year-old male and female children of gravidae who received semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaires (FFQs) at week 25 of gestation (n = 53,922)	The Western dietary pattern has high intake of fat meat and potatoes and low intake of fruit and vegetablesThe Western pattern was assoc with forearm fractures in offspring before their 16th birthdayHigh maternal consumption of artificially sweetened drinks increased forearm fractures by 12 % in children
Ganpule et al. 2006 [7]	India	6-year-old male and female children of gravidae who had nutritional status assessed at week 18 and week 28 of gestation (n = 698)Estimated mean Ca intake for gravidae was 274 mg/day at week 18 and 268 mg/day at week 28	Larger parental bone mineral content (BMC) – for both parents – predicted higher TB and/or spine BMC of children (Pearson correlation coefficient P < 0.001).In univariate analyses, maternal frequency of milk intake was + assoc with TB BMD (P < 0.05), as was milk product intake (P < 0.05)In multiple regression analyses, larger parental BMC (for both parents), lower maternal parity and higher maternal intakes of milk and milk products at week 28 of gestation predicted higher TB and/or spine BMC in children
Heppe et al. 2013 [10]	Netherlands	6-year-old male and female children of gravidae who received FFQs at 13.5 weeks of gestation (IQRb 3.3) (n = 2819)Estimated mean Ca intake for gravidae was 1108 mg/day (SD 311 mg)	Higher maternal Ca/P intake assoc with higher BMC and BMD of children (all P-trend < 0.005).No assoc with maternal Mg intakeHigher maternal protein intake assoc with higher BMC (P-trend = 0.02) and BMD (P-trend < 0.001)Maternal carbohydrate intake inversely assoc with BMC and BMD (both P-trend = 0.02)No assoc between maternal total energy intake or fat intake and bone mass of children (P-trend > 0.05)
Tobias et al. 2005 [6]	UK	9-year-old male and female children of gravidae who received FFQs at week 32 of gestation (n = 4588)Estimated mean Ca intake for gravidae was 952 mg/day (SD 275 mg)	Maternal Mg intake assoc. with TB BMC (β c = 4.9, 95 % CI 7.4–23.1 g) and BMD (β = 4.9, 2.5–7.3; g/cm2 × 103) (P < 0.001). After adjustment for child height, assoc no longer apparentMaternal P intake assoc with spinal BMC (β = 1.8, 0.8–2.9; g) and BMD (β = 10.5, 4.9–16.0; g/cm2 × 103) (P = 0.001). After adjustment for child weight, assoc is no longer apparentAssoc between maternal dietary folate intake and spinal BMC adjusted for bone area (β = 0.55, 0.16–0.94; g; P = 0.006), still evident after adjustment for height and weight
Cole et al. 2009 [8]	UK	9-year-old male and female children of gravidae who received FFQs at week 15 and week 32 of gestation (n = 198)Estimated mean Ca intake for gravidae was 952 mg/day (SD 275 mg)	The ‘prudent’ diet pattern is characterized by high intakes of fruit, vegetables and wholemeal bread, rice, and pasta, and low intakes of processed foods. Higher prudent diet score at week 32 of gestation assoc with higher intakes of protein and Ca+ Assoc between maternal prudent diet score and children’s whole body bone area (r = 0.24, P = 0.001), BMC (r = 0.23, P = 0.001), and areal BMD (r = 0.15, P = 0.02), after adjustment for age and sex

Assoc association, sig significantly

aStandard deviation

bInterquartile range

cStandardised regression coefficients which quantify the absolute change in the dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) outcome per standard deviation change in maternal dietary intake for the constituent in question

The role of maternal vitamin D

Vitamin D insufficiency is common in pregnancy, particularly in pregnant women residing at northern latitudes. A mother-offspring cohort study from Southampton, UK, reported that 31 % of mothers had insufficient (11–20 ng/mL) and 18 % had deficient (<11 ng/mL) circulating concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] during the late stage of pregnancy [11]. A longitudinal study of pregnant adolescents in the Northeastern USA reported that approximately half of the adolescents and their infants had serum 25(OH)D of <20 ng/mL at mid-gestation (26 weeks) [14]. Among a cohort of pregnant women from Ireland, considering all three trimesters collectively, 34.3–52.6 % were vitamin D insufficient (11–20 ng/mL) and 14.3–23.7 % were deficient (<11 ng/mL), respectively [15].

Investigators from Southampton found that lower concentrations of gestational 25(OH)D were associated with reduced whole body and lumbar spine BMC and bone mass density (BMD) in children at 9 years of age [11]. Another study from the same group reported a correlation between maternal vitamin D concentrations and neonatal bone mass [16].

US investigators also assessed the impact of maternal vitamin D status and calcium intake, and interactions between the two, on foetal skeletal growth in utero in pregnant adolescents [17]. Higher calcium intake (≥1050 mg/day) was associated with significantly greater foetal femur and humerus Z-scores (P < 0.03). Notably, only 29.4 % of adolescents met the estimated average requirement (EAR; 1100 mg/day) for calcium, and 15.3 % of adolescents met the recommended dietary allowance (RDA; 1300 mg/day). Foetal femur (P = 0.003) and foetal humerus length Z-scores (P = 0.006) were significantly higher for vitamin D sufficient [25(OH)D >20 ng/mL] pregnant adolescents as compared to vitamin D insufficient adolescents. Potential interactions between the effects of maternal 25(OH)D sufficiency and maternal calcium intake ≥1050 mg/day on foetal bone length were modelled. Calcium intake was associated with foetal femur Z-scores and birth length only when maternal 25(OH)D was <20 ng/mL (P < 0.05). Similarly, maternal 25(OH)D was associated with foetal femur and humerus Z-scores only when maternal calcium intake was <1050 mg/day (P < 0.03). So, higher calcium intakes compensated for suboptimal vitamin D status and vice versa. It is not known if these results are transferable to the pregnant adult population.

Information obtained from the Danish Foetal Origins 1988 Cohort has enabled the exploration of potential associations between maternal vitamin D status and occurrence of fractures in offspring up to age 18 years [18]. Vitamin D status was available for 88 % (n = 850) of the pregnant women, and 294 children had at least one fracture recorded on the Danish National Patient Register. No overall association was observed between maternal vitamin D status and first fracture in the children. However, a seasonal effect was evident. The hazard ratio for fractures among children whose mother had blood drawn in winter months, as compared to those who had blood drawn in summer months, was significantly higher (HR 1.75, 95 % CI 1.11–2.74). Notably, adjustment for maternal vitamin D status strengthened this interaction. When considered as a continuous variable, a borderline significantly inverse relationship was apparent between 25(OH)D levels and offspring forearm fractures (P = 0.054).

The safety and effectiveness of vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy have been assessed in a single-centre, double-blind, randomized clinical trial (RCT) of 494 women in South Carolina, USA [19]. Women with a singleton pregnancy at 12–16 weeks’ gestation received 400, 2000 or 4000 IU of vitamin D3 per day until delivery (n = 350). Vitamin D supplementation of 4000 IU/day was shown to be safe and the most effective dose to achieve sufficiency in all women. It should be noted that no functional outcome benefits were observed with supplementation. However, with regard to assessment of bone outcomes in offspring, to date, only one small-scale intervention study has considered the impact of vitamin D supplementation in pregnancy [20]. In order to address this gap in the evidence base, the UK Maternal Vitamin D Osteoporosis Study (MAVIDOS) will test whether offspring of mothers supplemented with vitamin D in pregnancy have higher bone mass at birth than those whose mothers were not supplemented [21]. This multicentre study randomized women in a double-blind design to either oral vitamin D supplement (1000 IU cholecalciferol/day, n = 477) or placebo at 14 weeks gestation (n = 477). Infants will undergo dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) assessments within the first 14 days after birth and at age 4 years. The trial has completed neonatal follow-up and results will be reported in full later in 2015.

Interaction between genes and the environment in utero

Fine-tuning of gene expression mediated through epigenetic processes enables an organism to make short-term adaptations to the prevailing environment for one or two generations [22]. These changes do not involve mutation of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). The primary molecular mechanisms involved are DNA methylation, chromatin histone modification and non-coding ribonucleic acids (RNA). Two studies have evaluated epigenetic influences on the developmental origins of osteoporosis:

Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) is important in bone metabolism, playing a mechanistic role in the function of osteocytes, osteoblasts and osteoclasts [23]. Investigators sought to relate the methylation status of the eNOS gene promoter in stored umbilical cord to bone size and mineral density in children aged 9 years. An association was apparent between methylation status at birth and bone size and density.

Retinoid X receptor-alpha (RXRA) is an essential cofactor in the action of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [24]. Methylation of the RXRA gene promoter in umbilical cord was inversely associated with percentage bone mineral content (%BMC) and BMC corrected for body size at 4 years old.

In time, epigenetic studies may provide a basis for development of novel biomarkers to identify children who are at increased risk of poor bone health in later life.

Dietary guidelines and the needs of expectant mothers

Several guidelines have considered the dietary needs of expectant mothers which are of relevance to bone health [25-28].

In February 2015, the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee (DGAC) published an Advisory Report for the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Secretary of Agriculture [25]. The DGAC found that several nutrients are under-consumed relative to the EAR or the adequate intake (AI) levels set by the Institute of Medicine (IOM) [29]. Calcium, vitamin D, fibre and potassium were classified as ‘nutrients of public health concern’ because of well-documented links to adverse health outcomes. Furthermore, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) designated calcium and vitamin D as nutrients of ‘public health significance’ in its recent review of evidence in publishing a Proposed Rule on the Nutrition Facts label [30]. Notably, among pregnant women, 90 % had intakes below the EAR for vitamin D and 24 % had intakes below the EAR for calcium. The DGAC note specifically that calcium is an under-consumed nutrient of public health concern among pregnant women. Guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) [26] and the Endocrine Society [27] have proposed strategies to achieve the RDA of vitamin D which include the following:

Consumption of fortified foods

Broadening the range of dairy products that are fortified

In some cases, the use of a vitamin D supplement or multivitamin including vitamin D

Strategies to improve calcium intake include increased consumption of dairy or fortified products that are important sources of calcium.

In the UK, the National Health Service (NHS) recommends expectant mothers take a supplement containing 400 IU vitamin D each day throughout pregnancy and during breastfeeding [31]. The recommendation highlights that women who choose to take a multivitamin supplement to obtain vitamin D should not use any supplements containing vitamin A (retinol), as too much could be harmful to the infant. In 2014, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) published Public Health Guidance 56 on increasing vitamin D supplement use among at risk groups, including pregnant women [28]. The guidance notes that the main natural source is from the action of sunlight on skin. However, from mid-October to the beginning of April in the UK, there is no ambient ultraviolet sunlight of the appropriate wavelength for skin synthesis of vitamin D, resulting in a significant minority of adults and children having low levels [32].

Childhood and adolescence

Achieving an individual’s genetic potential for peak bone mass is the primary objective relating to bone health during childhood and adolescence. A theoretical analysis published in 2003 considered the relative influences of peak BMD, age-related bone loss and menopause on the development of osteoporosis in women [33]. Variation of peak BMD had by far the greatest influence on the average age at which a T-score of less than 2.5 standard deviations below the young adult mean was projected to be reached. Development of osteoporosis would occur 13 years later if the peak BMD was increased by 10 %. By comparison, a 10 % change in the age at menopause or the rate of non-menopausal bone loss would delay the onset of osteoporosis by just 2 years.

The Bone Mineral Density in Childhood Study (BMDCS) investigators hypothesized that BMD would ‘track’ along a particular trajectory throughout childhood and adolescence [34]. BMDCS is a multicentre longitudinal study of 1554 boys and girls in the USA who were evaluated annually for up to 6 years. Approximately one third (n = 533) of the participants completed the full 6 years of follow-up and were sexually and skeletally mature at final follow-up. Children were categorized according to their baseline DXA Z-scores as low (<−1.5), intermediate (−1.5 to 1.5) or high (>1.5). Almost all participants who had initial Z-scores less than −1.5 remained below the mean of normal (Z = 0), and the majority were below −1.0 at final follow-up. Similarly, participants who had initial Z-scores above 1.5 remained above the mean. Tracking was stronger for girls as compared to boys. Given the practical difficulty of conducting a longitudinal study that would follow individuals from childhood to old age, the investigators concluded that observation of relatively low BMD prior to attainment of peak bone mass could identify individuals at higher risk of developing osteoporosis in later life.

Gender differences in skeletal development

At birth, there is no difference between the genders in terms of bone mass of either the axial or appendicular skeleton. Adolescence is a pivotal period in skeletal development during which approximately half of bone mass is accumulated [35]. A quarter of adult skeletal calcium is acquired during the 2-year period when peak height velocity occurs [36]. The age of peak calcium accretion is 14 and 12.5 years for boys and girls, respectively. Accrual of bone mass during childhood and adolescence is controlled by sex steroids and the growth hormone/insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) axis of the endocrine system [37]. Androgens have been shown to increase cortical bone size, while oestrogens reduce it. Accordingly, during puberty, boys develop larger bones than girls which have a thicker cortex. Consequently, boys generally have higher peak bone mass than girls, as illustrated in Fig. 1.

Fig. 1

Bone mass throughout the life cycle

Nutrition

While genetics contributes up to 80 % of the variance of BMD observed within the population [38], nutrition, exercise and lifestyle, body weight and composition, and hormonal status all affect bone mass accrual in children and adolescents [26]. Specifically, calcium, vitamin D and protein are the most important nutrients for bone health during the first two decades.

Calcium

Inadequate calcium intake is a worldwide problem which has been reported among women of child-bearing age [39, 40], pregnant women [25], children and adolescents [41].

Approximately 300 mg of calcium is required each day to produce adequate breast milk [42]. Studies intended to assess the relationship between maternal calcium intake and calcium content in breast milk have reported equivocal findings [43-45]. This suggests that changes in maternal calcium metabolism, intestinal calcium absorption efficiency and renal calcium handling may collectively result in adequate provision of calcium to the breastfed infant, even when maternal calcium intake is very low [43, 44].

Analysis of the long-term impact of duration of breastfeeding (BF) on bone health has been conducted in Finland [46]. A prospective cohort study followed children from birth until 32 years of age, when BMD was measured. The cohort was divided into three equal-size groups according to the total duration of BF: short (≤3 months), intermediate and prolonged (≥7 months) BF groups. Notably, males in the short BF group had, on average, 4.7 % higher whole body BMD than males in the prolonged group. No differences were observed in women. A potential explanation for the difference in males was that formula milk and commercial cow milk/cow milk dilutions had significantly higher calcium and phosphate contents. Calcium content was 1.4 times higher in the formula, 3.1 times higher in the cow milk dilution, and 4.4 times higher in the commercial cow milk, as compared with breast milk. Phosphorus content was 2.6, 6.3 and 12 times higher, respectively, when compared with breast milk. The authors found the lack of a difference between the groups in women surprising, but offered no explanation regarding why this should be so.

From the second year of life onwards, milk and dairy products are the source of up to 80 % of dietary calcium intake for children. Accordingly, it is of concern that since the 1970s, a decline in milk consumption among children and adolescents has been reported in several developed countries [47], including France [48], Germany [49] and the USA [50]. So-called milk displacement, where carbonated beverages (sodas) are preferred to milk, is increasing worldwide and is associated with decreased consumption of milk, calcium and other nutrients [51].

The dietary reference intakes (DRI) for calcium recommended by IOM in the USA are shown by age range for children in Table 2 [29]. Preschool children in the UK have been reported to have suboptimal calcium intake relative to the UK Department of Health reference nutrient intake [RNI, a comparable measure to recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) used by the IOM] [52]. Less than 15 % of adolescent girls in the USA consume the IOM RDA, with average intake being 876 mg/day [40].

Table 2

US Institute of Medicine calcium dietary reference intakes for infants and children [29]

Age	Calcium RDA (mg/day)	Calcium UL (mg/day)a
0–6 months	200b	1000
6–12 months	260b	1500
1–3 years	700	2500
4–8 years	1000	2500
9–13 years	1300	3000
14–18 years	1300	3000

aThe upper limit (UL) highlights a level above which there is risk of adverse events

bBecause RDAs have not been established for infants, the adequate intake (AI) value is shown. AI is a value that meets the needs of most children

The impact of calcium supplementation on bone density in healthy children has been evaluated in a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials [53]. Calcium supplementation had no effect on BMD at the femoral neck or lumbar spine, although a small effect on total body BMC was reported.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D insufficiency has been reported throughout the world and is prevalent among women of child-bearing age, pregnant women, children and adolescents [41]. The International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) has mapped data relating to children and adolescents throughout the world as shown in Fig. 2a [54].

Fig. 2

a IOF map of vitamin D status in children and adolescents [54]. b IOF map of vitamin D status in adults [54]

Comprehensive review articles have described in detail both the physiology of vitamin D [55-57], including its role in calcium and phosphate homeostasis, and the role of vitamin D in skeletal health in infants and children [58]. The authors of the latter review concluded that there was insufficient evidence to support the notion that low 25(OH)D was associated with increased fracture risk during childhood. Furthermore, the relationship between 25(OH)D status and BMD was not clear, with the caveat that supplementation in children with the lowest levels of 25(OH)D might improve BMD.

The DRI for vitamin D recommended by the IOM are shown by age range for children in Table 3 [29]. Dietary sources of vitamin D are limited to fatty fish, egg yolk, nuts and some types of fungi, which do not feature significantly in the diets of children and adolescents. A recent pan-European study concluded that adolescent consumers of ready-to-eat cereals (RTECs) had favourable micronutrient intake, including vitamin D, as compared to nonconsumers of RTECs [59].

Table 3

US Institute of Medicine vitamin D dietary reference intakes for infants and children [29]

Age	Vitamin D RDA (IU/day)	Vitamin D UL (IU/day)a
0–6 months	400b	1000
6–12 months	400b	1500
1–3 years	600	2500
4–8 years	600	3000
9–13 years	600	4000
14–18 years	600	4000

aThe upper limit (UL) highlights a level above which there is risk of adverse events

bBecause recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) have not been established for infants, the adequate intake (AI) value is shown. AI is a value that meets the needs of most children

Guidance from Australia [60], UK [61] and USA [26] recommends vitamin D supplementation for infants and young children. A recent expert position statement reviewed evidence of skeletal and extra-skeletal effects of vitamin D in childhood and adolescence, and provided recommendations on vitamin D supplementation in children and adolescents [62].

Protein

Dietary protein plays two important roles with respect to bone health in children and adolescents:

Provides a source of amino acids to build the bone matrix

Stimulates IGF-I which is important for bone formation

The genetic potential for peak bone mass can be affected by variation in protein intake considered to be within the normal range (i.e., 0.8–1.5 g/kg body weight/day) [63]. As milk provides a high-quality source of protein, investigators from Sheffield, UK, evaluated the effect of milk supplementation on total body bone mineral acquisition in adolescent girls [64]. At baseline, both groups consumed an average of 150 mL of milk/day, which increased by an average of 300 mL/day in the milk group throughout the 18-month trial. Significantly higher serum concentrations of IGF-I were observed in the milk group as compared to the control group (35 vs 25 %, P = 0.02) and higher total body BMD (9.6 vs 8.5 %, P = 0.017; repeated measures analysis of variance) and BMC (27.0 vs 24.1 %, P = 0.009). Additionally, diets low in protein can result in reduced calcium retention [65]. The DRI for protein recommended by the IOM are shown by age range for children in Table 4 [29].

Table 4

US Institute of Medicine protein dietary reference intakes for infants and children [29]

Age	Protein RDA (g/day)	Protein AMDR (g/day)a
0–6 months	9.1b	NDc
7–12 months	11	NDc
1–3 years	13	5–20
4–8 years	19	10–30
9–13 years	34	10–30
14–18 years (males)	52	10–30
14–18 years (females)	46	10–30

aThe acceptable macronutrient distribution range (AMDR) is the range of intake for a particular energy source that is associated with reduced risk of chronic disease while providing intakes of essential nutrients. If an individual consumed in excess of the AMDR, there is a potential of increasing the risk of chronic diseases and insufficient intakes of essential nutrients

bBecause RDAs have not been established for infants aged 0–6 months, AI value is shown. AI is a value that meets the needs of most children

cNot determinable (ND) due to lack of data of adverse effects in this age group and concern with regard to lack of ability to handle excess amounts. Source of intake should be from food only to prevent high levels of intake

Dietary pattern analysis

The value of investigating the role of individual dietary components on bone health has been challenged, on account of the potential for interactions between the various components of the diet to confound findings of single-nutrient-focused studies. To address this question, US investigators conducted a cross-sectional analysis of healthy premenopausal women aged 18–30 years to determine whether existing indices of overall diet quality were associated with bone density in young women nearing peak bone mass [66]. The indices used were the Alternate Healthy Eating Index (AHEI) and the Recommended Food Score (RFS), which are based on the 1995 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the food guide pyramid developed by US Department of Agriculture [65]. No associations were observed between bone density and diet quality score, continuous dietary variables or individual components of the AHEI. This study suggested that a new dietary pattern index was required to better predict measures of bone mass.

More recently, principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to the Generation R Study cohort of children [67]. Three major dietary patterns were extracted, which explained 30 % of the variation in dietary intake:

Potatoes, rice and vegetables: characterized by high loadings for potatoes, pasta and rice, vegetables, meat and meat products, fish and shellfish, oils and condiments and sauces

Refined grains and confectionery: characterized by high intakes of refined grains, solid fats, confectionery, snack bar products and savoury snacks, and sugar-containing beverages

Dairy and whole grains: characterized by high loadings for whole grains, dairy and cheese, and eggs, and a negative loading for breast milk and infant formula

Children who demonstrated higher adherence to the ‘dairy and whole grains’ pattern, according to food frequency questionnaires completed by their mothers, had higher total body BMD and area-adjusted BMC (aBMC) at 6 years of age. Children in the highest quartile of the dairy and whole grains pattern had higher BMD (difference 3.98 mg/cm2, 95 % CI 0.36–7.61) and aBMC (difference 4.96 g, 95 % CI 1.27–8.64) than children in the lowest quartile. Notably, the association between the dairy and whole grains’ pattern and bone outcomes was only observed in children who did not receive vitamin D supplementation.

Fracture trends in childhood and later life

Studies in boys [68] and girls [69] have shown an association between the incidence of fractures during childhood and adolescence, and markers for low peak bone mass. Another study from the Mayo Clinic suggested that fractures in children and adolescents have two distinct causes [70]:

Fractures resulting from mild trauma which suggest underlying skeletal fragility

Fractures resulting from moderate trauma when bone strength is normal

Distal forearm fractures (DFFs) are the most common fracture type suffered by young people. The Mayo investigators subsequently sought to establish whether a DFF in childhood or adolescence identifies a subpopulation predisposed to develop suboptimal peak bone mass, which tracks into adulthood [70]. A group of 75 women and 75 men aged 20–40 years, who had sustained a DFF before age 18 years, were compared to 150 sex-matched controls with no history of fracture. Bone strength was examined by high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) to determine failure load by micro-finite element (μFE) analysis, as well as cortical and trabecular bone parameters at the distal radius and tibia. Those individuals who sustained a DFF in childhood as a result of mild trauma had significant reductions in failure load compared to fracture-free controls. However, individuals who sustained fractures as a result of moderate trauma had similar values to controls. Furthermore, those with mild trauma fractures had significantly diminished distal radius cortical area and significant bone density at the radius, hip and total body regions compared to controls (all p < 0.05). These findings suggest that children and adolescents who suffer mild trauma DFFs should be candidates for lifestyle interventions to improve bone health.

Maintaining bone mass in adulthood

This section of the review focuses on the role of nutrition in the years between achievement of peak bone mass and the onset of age-related bone loss (i.e., from the twenties until the sixties for most individuals). The primary bone health objective during this phase of life is avoidance of premature bone loss and maintenance of a healthy skeleton. Throughout life, bone is in a constant state of turnover described as the bone remodelling cycle. During this 30–40-year period, bone mass remains comparatively high in both sexes until the onset of menopause in women and the beginning of the eighth decade in men. As for younger individuals, a well-balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D and protein, with adequate amounts of certain other micronutrients, will fulfil the nutritional requirements of the adult skeleton.

Inadequate dietary intake of calcium has been reported among adults in Asia, Europe, Oceania and North America [41].

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the human body and plays several important physiological roles relating to nerve and muscle function. The molecular mechanisms which are triggered by low-calcium diets have been reviewed in detail elsewhere [71]. In short, the concentration of calcium in blood is maintained within very narrow limits (2.2–2.5 mmol/L), which is sensed by the parafollicular cells of the thyroid gland and calcium-sensing receptors on the parathyroid glands. When calcium levels are high, the thyroid gland secretes calcitonin which lowers calcium levels through inhibition of three processes: calcium absorption in the intestines, osteoclast activity and renal tubular reabsorption of calcium. Calcitonin also stimulates osteoblast activity. When calcium levels are low, calcitonin secretion is inhibited and parathyroid hormone (PTH) is secreted. PTH, which has a short half-life (about 4 min), serves to increase calcium levels through effects on the bone, the kidney and the intestines. PTH binds to osteoblasts, resulting in increased expression of receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) and inhibited expression of osteoprotegerin (OPG). OPG can bind to RANKL, serving to inhibit RANKL from interacting with its receptor, RANK. This is important because when RANKL and RANK bind, osteoclast precursors are stimulated to fuse to form new osteoclasts, resulting in increased bone resorption and release of skeletal calcium into the blood. PTH enhances active reabsorption of calcium and magnesium from distal tubules and the thick ascending limb. PTH also enhances the absorption of calcium in the intestine by increasing the production of activated vitamin D.

IOF has developed a calcium calculator which is available online at http://www.iofbonehealth.org/calcium-calculator or as an App available from the iTunes App Store and through Google Play. The calculator quantifies calcium intake from a broad range of food types. Among individuals who are lactose intolerant, some mineral waters and tap waters can provide a significant source of dietary calcium. In North America, calcium concentration of tap water varies from 1 to 135 mg/L [72]. In Spain, the average calcium concentration of public drinking waters is 39 mg/L, ranging from 0.4 to 160 mg/L [73]. The average calcium concentration of Spanish mineral waters is 40 mg/L, ranging from 0.6 to 610 mg/L.

Recommendations on dietary calcium intake for adults from several leading organizations are consistent:

Australia: National Health and Medical Research Council RDI for calcium for adults aged 19–50 years is 1000 mg/day [74]

USA: IOM dietary reference intake for calcium for adults aged 19–50 years is 1000 mg/day [29]

World Health Organization/Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations: WHO/FAO dietary reference Intake for calcium for adults aged 25–50 years is 1000 mg/day [75]

In light of the widespread suboptimal levels of dietary calcium intake, under what circumstances should healthy individuals take calcium supplements? An ongoing debate in the literature has sought to establish the risk-benefit ratio of calcium supplementation with respect to beneficial effects on bone health as compared to adverse impacts on the cardiovascular system [76]. Supplements should be used only as needed to bring total calcium intake to the recommended level.

Vitamin D insufficiency is prevalent among adults throughout the world [41, 54], as illustrated in the IOF map in Fig. 2b.

Adults at elevated risk of having inadequate levels of vitamin D include the following individuals:

Living at higher latitudes with minimal exposure to sunlight

Who are obese

With a darker skin tone

Who cannot expose their skin to the sun for medical or cultural reasons

With diseases that reduce uptake of vitamin D from the intestine

Who are institutionalized

Vitamin D exerts direct and indirect effects on bone health. Calcium absorption has been shown to be higher in individuals with higher mean serum 25(OH)D [77]. Individuals pre-treated with vitamin D, such that their average mean serum 25(OH)D concentration was 34.7 ng/mL, had 65 % higher absorption of calcium compared to control subjects with average mean serum 25(OH)D concentrations of 20.1 ng/mL. Vitamin D plays an important role in the mineralization of bone [78]. Examination of iliac crest biopsies found pathologic mineralization defects in patients with a serum 25(OH)D below 20 ng/mL. Serum concentrations of PTH have been shown to be lower in individuals with relatively higher concentrations of serum 25(OH)D, so reducing PTH-induced bone loss [79]. Among men and women aged 20 years and over in the USA, 25(OH)D status has been shown to be the dominant predictor of BMD as compared to calcium intake [80]. As 25(OH)D concentrations increase (from <20 to 20–30 to >30 ng/mL), BMD increased significantly in a stepwise fashion (value for trend women, P < 0.0001; men, P = 0.0001). In terms of indirect effects on bone health, vitamin D has been shown to stimulate muscle tissue [81] and thus reduce fall risk [82].

The primary source of vitamin D is endogenous synthesis in the epidermis, where 7-dehydrocholesterol is photochemically converted to pre-vitamin D3 in response to ultraviolet B exposure, which subsequently spontaneously isomerizes to cholecalciferol (vitamin D3). The IOM RDA for vitamin D for adults aged 19–70 years (as cholecalciferol) is 600 IU/day [29]. Dietary sources of vitamin D are limited to fatty fish (e.g., mackerel, salmon, sardines and tuna), egg yolk, some nuts and some types of fungi (e.g., shiitake mushrooms).

Population screening for vitamin D deficiency is not recommended. However, measurement of serum 25(OH)D in high-risk individuals enables assessment of response to supplementation and the need for dose adjustment. In 2013, the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) evaluated the effects of vitamin D supplementation, with or without calcium, on bone health outcomes in community-dwelling adults [83]. The USPSTF reached the following conclusions:

The current evidence is insufficient to assess the balance of the benefits and harms of combined vitamin D and calcium supplementation for the primary prevention of fractures in premenopausal women or in men.

The current evidence is insufficient to assess the balance of the benefits and harms of daily supplementation with greater than 400 IU of vitamin D3 and greater than 1000 mg of calcium for the primary prevention of fractures in non-institutionalized postmenopausal women.

Protein and other micronutrients

The relationship between dietary protein and bone health was first subjected to systematic review and meta-analysis in 2009 [84]. A small positive association was shown between protein intake and BMD and BMC. However, there was no association evident for a reduction in hip fracture risk. Vitamin K is required to make osteocalcin functional, which is the most abundant non-collagenous protein in bone. While epidemiological studies suggest that diets high in vitamin K are associated with lower risk of hip fracture in older people [85], supplementation with vitamin K1 or K2 in RCTs did not result in increases in BMD at major sites [86]. B vitamins have the potential to ameliorate adverse effects on bone health mediated by hyperhomocysteinemia, because homocysteine levels can rise when blood levels of vitamin B6, vitamin B12 and folic acid are low. Observational studies have reported an association between high homocysteine levels and low BMD [87] and elevated hip fracture risk in older people [88]. A recent randomized controlled trial has evaluated the effect of vitamin B12 (500 μg) and folic acid (400 μg) supplementation on BMD and quantitative ultrasound parameters in older people with hyperhomocysteinemia [89]. After 2 years of supplementation, neither significant differences were observed between the treatment and placebo groups for BMD at the lumbar spine or femoral neck, nor for calcaneal broadband ultrasound attenuation (BUA) or calcaneal speed of sound. However, a small positive effect of the intervention on BUA was observed in the subgroup of individuals who were aged over 80 years and were compliant with the treatment. Compliance was defined as having taken at least 80 % of the supplement tablets during the intervention period. Further studies are required to definitively evaluate the role of supplementation with B vitamins on prevention of osteoporosis. The role of vitamin A in bone health remains controversial [90]. Population-based studies have reported an association between high dietary intake of preformed vitamin A and greater risk of osteoporosis and hip fracture. However, intake of vitamin A precursor carotenoids has been linked to improved bone health. In terms of minerals, magnesium stimulates proliferation of osteoclasts. However, magnesium deficiency is rare in well-nourished populations. Zinc plays a role in renewal and mineralization of bone tissue, and deficiency can be common in community-dwelling older people [91].

Acid-base balance of the diet

The prevalence of chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease among older people is increasing [92]. Diets which have low intakes of fruit and vegetables, and high intakes of cereal grains and protein, are increasingly common. Taken together, these two phenomena contribute to a low-grade, progressive metabolic acidosis among a growing number of older people. An acid environment has been shown to impair osteoblast function [93], accelerate bone resorption by enhancing osteoclast survival, adhesion, and migration [94], and also exert a direct negative physico-chemical effect on the bone [95].

In 2011, a systematic review and meta-analysis sought to evaluate causal relationships between dietary acid load and osteoporosis [96]. The investigators concluded that no association was evident and, conversely, that there is no evidence that an alkaline diet is protective of bone health. A limitation of this meta-analysis was that the primary studies were not weighted for sample size and that young and older subjects were included. More recent studies have sought to evaluate daily consumption of a dose of alkali on measures of bone health.

In 2013, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study compared measurements of areal BMD (aBMD) at the lumbar spine by DXA, volumetric density (vBMD) and microarchitectural parameters measured by HR-pQCT, and fracture risk assessment by FRAX® for healthy older adults [97]. Men and women aged over 65 years received 60 mmol of potassium citrate or placebo daily for 24 months. All participants were provided with calcium (500 mg) and vitamin D3 (400 IU) supplements. At 24 months, aBMD at the lumbar spine was significantly higher for the potassium citrate group compared to placebo (1.7 ± 1.5 %, 95 % CI 1.0–2.3, P < 0.001). Similarly, trabecular densities measured by HR-pQCT were higher for the intervention group at the nondominant tibia (1.3 ± 1.3 %, 95 % CI 0.7–1.9, P < 0.001) and the nondominant radius (2.0 ± 2.0 %, 95 % CI 1.4–2.7, P < 0.001). In terms of microarchitectural parameters, significant increases were observed for trabecular bone volume/tissue volume, trabecular thickness and trabecular number for the intervention group. Potassium citrate supplementation was also associated with diminished FRAX® score in both sexes.

A second study published in 2013 described a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study which compared measurements of bone turnover markers, net acid excretion and calcium metabolism for older men and women assigned to potassium citrate 60 mmol/day, 90 mmol/day, or placebo daily [98]. At 6 months, dietary acid was completely neutralized in the two treatment groups. Furthermore, urinary excretion of calcium was significantly reduced in both treatment groups compared with placebo (P < 0.01, 60 mmol/day [−46 ± 15.9 mg/day] and 90 mmol/day [−59 ± 31.6 mg/day]). Net calcium balance was significantly improved for the higher dose group compared to placebo (142 ± 80 mg/day on 90 mmol/day vs −80 ± 54 mg/day on placebo; P = 0.02). Also, serum C-telopeptides decreased significantly in both potassium citrate groups compared to placebo, while bone-specific alkaline phosphatase did not change. In 2015, a dose-finding study evaluated the effect of potassium bicarbonate supplementation on bone turnover, calcium excretion and nitrogen excretion [99]. Daily doses of 1 mmol/kg (median dose 81 mmol/day) and 1.5 mmol/kg (median dose 122 mmol/day) of potassium bicarbonate were compared to placebo. For the primary outcome of change in 24-h urinary N-telopeptides (NTX), a statistically significant reduction was observed for the low-dose group (P = 0.012). Both treatment groups had lower urinary calcium excretion, while no effect was observed on urinary nitrogen excretion for either dose group. The authors of both studies identify the need for long-term trials to assess the effect of supplementation with alkali on BMD and fracture risk.

Lifestyle factors which can affect bone health

The impact of alcohol on fracture risk has been assessed by analysis of a population of almost 17,000 men and women who participated in cohort studies from Australia, Canada and The Netherlands [100]. Alcohol intakes of 2 units or less per day were not associated with increased fracture risk. Consumption of alcohol above this threshold was associated with an increased risk of any fracture [risk ratio (RR) = 1.23; 95 % CI 1.06–1.43], any fracture considered to be due to osteoporosis by the investigator (RR = 1.38; 95 % CI 1.16–1.65), or hip fracture (RR = 1.68; 95 % CI 1.19–2.36). Notably, the effect is over and above that which can be explained by variations in BMD.

The impact of smoking on fracture risk has been assessed by analysis of a population of more than 59,000 men and women who participated in ten prospective cohort studies from Australia, Europe, Japan and North America [101]. Current smoking was associated with increased fracture risk, as was a history of smoking. When adjusted for BMD, the RR for any fracture for current smokers compared to nonsmokers was 1.13. Smokers also had an increased risk, after adjustment for BMD, for any osteoporotic fracture (RR = 1.13; 95 % CI 1.00–1.28) and for hip fracture (RR = 1.60; 95 % CI 1.27–2.02). Less than a quarter of the risk of hip fracture related to smoking was attributable to low BMD.

Other lifestyle factors which have been associated with adverse effects on bone health include high consumption of caffeinated beverages and having a very low or high BMI.

Nutritional needs of seniors

Malnutrition is very common among seniors and highly prevalent in the hospital, residential care and primary-care settings [102]. Causes of malnutrition in the elderly include protein-energy malnutrition (PEM, i.e., starvation, cachexia and sarcopenia). Cachexia has been defined as ‘a complex metabolic syndrome associated with underlying illness and characterized by loss of muscle with or without loss of fat mass’ [103]. In 2010, the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP) developed a practical clinical definition and consensus diagnostic criteria for age-related sarcopenia, which is characterized by both low muscle mass and low muscle function (i.e., strength or performance) [104]. As for younger individuals, calcium, vitamin D and protein play an important role in maintaining bone health in older people. The dietary reference intakes for calcium, vitamin D and protein recommended by the IOM are shown for older people and the elderly in Table 5 [29].

Table 5

US Institute of Medicine calcium, vitamin D and protein dietary reference intakes for older people and the elderly [29]

Age	Gender	Calcium RDA (mg/day)	Vitamin D RDA (IU/day)	Protein RDA (g/day)
51–70 years	Female	1200	600	46
	Male	1000	800	56
>70 years	Female	1200	600	46
	Male	1200	800	56

Calcium intake by seniors varies considerably throughout the world [41]. In Europe, intakes in Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Ireland and Poland are considerably lower than the IOM RDA shown in Table 5 [29], while intakes in Germany, the UK and The Netherlands are much closer to the RDA. In the USA, the 2015 DGAC Advisory Report described a mixed picture [25]. The majority of men (71 %) and women (81 %) aged over 70 years do not consume the EAR for calcium based on their consumption of food and beverages. When calcium supplements were taken into account the situation improved, with 55 % of men and 49 % of women below the EAR. At the other extreme, about 20 % of women and 15 % of men aged over 50 years consumed more calcium than the tolerable upper limit of intake (UL, 2000 mg/day).

As discussed previously, calcium metabolism is regulated by intestinal absorption, renal reabsorption and bone turnover. Seniors have decreased intestinal absorption of calcium, which can be exacerbated by low vitamin D status, and decreased renal retention. The DRI for calcium recommended by the IOM are shown by age range for older people in Table 5 [29]. A consensus statement from the European Society for Clinical and Economic Aspects of Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis (ESCEO) on musculoskeletal health in postmenopausal women recommended a daily intake of 1000 mg of calcium for women aged over 50 years [105].

In 2014, Dutch investigators sought to quantify calcium intake from calcium-dense dairy products for a cohort of 1526 female and 372 male fracture patients aged over 50 years [106]. Median calcium intake from dairy was 790 mg/day, which was increased by 450 mg when basic nutrition was taken into account. Compared to Dutch guidelines for calcium intake (adults ≤ 70 years 1100 mg/day and >70 years 1200 mg/day), 60.5 % of women and 59.1 % of men achieved the recommended intake.

Vitamin D insufficiency is highly prevalent among seniors throughout the world, whether insufficiency is defined as <30 or <20 ng/mL. Based on a definition of <30 ng/mL, an IOF position paper reported rates of insufficiency among postmenopausal women in Japan and South Korea, Malaysia and Thailand, and the USA as 90, 50 and 75 %, respectively [107]. The dietary reference intakes for vitamin D recommended by the IOM are shown for older people and the elderly in Table 5 [29]. It should be noted that these recommendations apply to the general population of older people.

Meta-analyses have been conducted to identify the optimal levels of vitamin D with regard to reduction of falls and fracture risk. With respect to falls, a mean serum level of 25(OH)D of at least 24 ng/mL is needed for optimal falls risk reduction [82]. With respect to fractures, the mean serum levels of 25(OH)D associated with reduced risk of non-vertebral fracture and hip fractures were 26.4 and 29.6 ng/mL, respectively [108].

Several learned societies have developed guidance specifically focused on care of patients with or at increased risk for osteoporosis. These generally recommend higher intakes or 25(OH)D levels than the IOM:

IOF: a target level of 25(OH)D for older individuals of 30 ng/mL [107]. The EAR for older adults to achieve a serum 25(OH)D level of 30 ng/mL is 800–1000 IU/day.

Endocrine Society: Adults aged 50–70 years and over 70 years require at least 600 and 800 IU/day of vitamin D, respectively, [27]. However, to raise the blood level of 25(OH)D above 30 ng/mL may require at least 1500–2000 IU/day of supplemental vitamin D.

ESCEO: In postmenopausal women, vitamin D intake of 800 IU/day is needed to maintain serum 25(OH)D levels greater than 20 ng/mL [105].

In 2012, the European Union Geriatric Medicine Society (EUGMS), in cooperation with other scientific organizations, established an International Study Group (the PROT-AGE Study Group) to review dietary protein needs with ageing. In 2013, the PROT-AGE Study Group published a position paper which provided the following key recommendations [109]:

To maintain physical function, older people need more dietary protein than do younger people; older people should consume an average daily intake at least in the range of 1–1.2 g/kg body weight/day.

Most older adults who have an acute or chronic disease need even more dietary protein (i.e., 1.2–1.5 g/kg body weight/day); people with severe illness or injury or with marked malnutrition may need as much as 2.0 g/kg body weight/day.

Older people with severe kidney disease who are not on dialysis (i.e., estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) <30 mL per min per 1.73 m2) are an exception to the high-protein rule; these individuals need to limit protein intake.

Protein quality, timing of intake and amino acid supplementation may be considered so as to achieve the greatest benefits from protein intake, but further studies are needed to make explicit recommendations.

In combination with increased protein intake, exercise is recommended at individualized levels that are safe and tolerated.

The position paper also comments specifically on the subject of protein requirements for hip fracture patients and people living with osteoporosis. Supplementary protein or higher dietary intake of protein by older people who have been hospitalized with hip fracture has been shown to improve bone density [84, 110], reduce the risk of complications [111-113] and reduce rehabilitation time [110]. Among older people living with osteoporosis, higher BMD has been reported when protein intake was at levels higher than 0.8 g/kg body weight/day or was 24 % of total energy intake [84, 114–116].

In 2013, the IOF Nutrition Working Group published a position paper on the impact of nutrition on muscle mass, strength and performance in older adults [117]. As protein plays an important role in muscle health, an intake of 1–1.2 g/kg body weight/day was recommended.

Treatment of osteoporosis

While nutrition makes an important contribution to bone health among seniors, the majority of pharmacological treatments used for osteoporosis will be deployed among this segment of the population. A broad range of treatments have been licensed throughout the world during the last three decades. These treatments are available in a wide range of dosing options, including daily, weekly or monthly oral preparations and daily, quarterly, six-monthly or annual injections. Fracture reduction at the hip, vertebrae and other skeletal sites has been reported in multiple RCTs. A summary of the anti-fracture efficacy of these treatments, which was presented in European guidance for the diagnosis and management of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women from ESCEO and the Committee of Scientific Advisors of IOF, is shown in Table 6 [118].

Table 6

Anti-fracture efficacy of frequently used osteoporosis treatments [118]

Treatment	Effect on vertebral fracture risk		Effect on non-vertebral fracture risk
	Osteoporosis	Established osteoporosisa	Osteoporosis	Established osteoporosisa
Alendronate	+	+	n/a	+ (including hip)
Risedronate	+	+	n/a	+ (including hip)
Ibandronate	n/a	+	n/a	+b
Zoledronic acid	+	+	n/a	+c
HRT	+	+	+	+ (including hip)
Raloxifene	+	+	n/a	N/A
Teriparatide and PTH	n/a	+	n/a	+d
Strontium ranelate	+	+	+ (including hipb)	+ (including hipb)
Denosumab	+	+c	+ (including hip)	+c

n/a no evidence available

aWomen with a prior vertebral fracture

bIn subsets of patients only (post hoc analysis)

cMixed group of patients with or without vertebral fractures

dShown for teriparatide only

A major focus of efforts to improve prevention of fragility fractures caused by osteoporosis is to close the persistent and pervasive postfracture care gap. Individuals who have suffered a prior fragility fracture are at significantly increased risk of further fractures, so should undergo assessments for osteoporosis and falls risk, and receive interventions in accordance with the national guidelines [119]. The IOF Capture the Fracture® Programme [120] and national initiatives in Australia [121], Canada [122], New Zealand [121], Singapore [123], UK [124] and USA [125] are promoting widespread implementation of the Fracture Liaison Service (FLS) model of care. In the absence of a systematic approach to the delivery of postfracture care, many audits conducted throughout the world report that less than 20 % of fracture patients are initiated on osteoporosis treatments as a result of their presentation with a fracture [120]. FLS have been shown to close this care gap. IOF has developed clinical standards for FLS in the form of the Best Practice Framework (BPF) [126]. The BPF comprises of 13 standards which set an international benchmark for FLS. Each standard has three levels of achievement: level 1, level 2 or level 3. The BPF:

Defines the essential and aspirational building blocks that are necessary to implement a successful FLS

Serves as the measurement tool for IOF to award ‘Capture the Fracture® Best Practice Recognition’ in celebration of successful FLS worldwide

At the time of writing, 128 FLS appear on IOF ‘map of best practice’ [120]:

68 that have been evaluated and recognized as either gold, silver or bronze

25 are currently under review

35 awaiting further data

Disease and disorders that affect nutritional status

Several diseases and disorders adversely affect nutritional status. The reader is referred to recent reviews on the impact on bone health and management approaches for individuals suffering anorexia nervosa [127], inflammatory bowel disease [128], coeliac disease [129] and lactose maldigestion and intolerance [130, 131].

A life-course approach to nutrition and fracture prevention

This review has considered the role of nutrition in developing and maintaining a healthy skeleton throughout the life-course.

The maternal diet is the primary source of foetal nutrition and has been shown to influence bone mass during childhood. In general, healthy maternal diets are associated with greater bone mass in the offspring. Vitamin D plays a particularly significant role, which renders observations of widespread insufficiency of this micronutrient among women of child-bearing age and pregnant women a cause for concern. National guidance regarding supplementation of vitamin D during pregnancy, as advocated by the National Health Service in the UK, may be merited in many countries.

Childhood and adolescence are critical periods for skeletal development. Determined efforts must be made to ensure that all children achieve their genetic potential for peak bone mass. Milk and dairy products comprise the mainstay of calcium intake for children, yet a precipitous decline in milk consumption by children has been observed across the world during the last few decades. This issue is particularly acute among adolescent girls, serving to underpin the notion that osteoporosis is a paediatric disease with geriatric consequences. Furthermore, vitamin D insufficiency is widespread among children and adolescents, which has led to recommendations in several countries for vitamin D supplements to be given to infants and young children. Recent studies suggest that low BMD during the first two decades tracks into young adulthood and that those who suffer low trauma fractures as children and adolescents should be the focus of lifestyle interventions to improve bone health in the long term.

From the third decade to the beginning of the seventh decade of life, the primary goal relating to bone health is to maintain a healthy skeleton and avoid premature bone loss. Despite there being a clear consensus shared by leading organizations on optimal levels for dietary calcium intake, actual intakes are often considerably below those recommended by national guidelines. Similarly, IOF has mapped vitamin D status among adults, which demonstrates alarmingly high levels of insufficiency and deficiency in all regions of the world. Lifestyle factors such as excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, high intake of caffeinated beverages and a very high or low BMI also elevate fracture risk for substantial numbers of adults worldwide.

Fragility fractures most frequently occur among seniors. As for younger individuals, a significant proportion of seniors are not obtaining an adequate intake of calcium from their diet, and vitamin D insufficiency is highly prevalent among seniors throughout the world. Deficits in protein intake also adversely affect bone health among our older people, where malnutrition is common. Nutrition plays an important complementary role to pharmacotherapy for seniors who are at high fracture risk. A significant care gap exists for individuals who suffer fragility fractures of which major initiatives such as the IOF Capture the Fracture® Programme aim to eliminate.

A recent report from the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) in the USA considered what progress has been made in the country since the publication of the Surgeon General’s Report on Bone Health in 2004 [132]. A proposed strategy for the next decade is illustrated in Fig. 3. This graphic and the suggested programmes which relate to the six strata of the ‘pyramid’ provide a conceptual framework which integrates clinically led initiatives, such as hip fracture registries and FLS, with public health messaging:

Fig. 3

A systematic approach to fragility fracture care and prevention for the USA [132] (reproduced with kind permission of the National Osteoporosis Foundation)

Programme 1: develop national hip fracture registries which will enable benchmarking of acute care against quality measures derived from national professional standards

Programme 2: drive widespread adoption of FLS through publication of case studies, web-based and direct education, and national quality measures

Programme 3: develop clinically effective and cost-effective first fracture prevention programmes, and publish case studies, to drive systematic primary fracture prevention

Programme 4: develop and implement public awareness campaigns on preserving physical activity, healthy lifestyles and reducing environmental hazards

Programme 5: develop and implement public awareness campaigns on adequate dietary intake of calcium, ensuring vitamin D sufficiency and the benefits of regular exercise

Programme 6: develop and implement public awareness campaigns for schools, students and parents on how to optimize peak bone mass accrual through diet and exercise

As the baby boomer generation ages, the incidence of fragility fractures, and hip fractures in particular, is set to escalate across the world, imposing an ever-increasing burden on already overstretched health systems and budgets. Nutrition plays a key role in the development and maintenance of a healthy skeleton and is an important component of a systematic approach to fragility fracture care and prevention, from before the cradle to the grave.