[Nutrition in prevention and treatment of osteoporosis].

Osteoporosis is a systemic skeletal disease characterized by decreased bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue, with a consequent increase in bone fragility and susceptibility to fractures. Development of maximal bone mass during growth and reduction of loss of bone later in life are the two main strategies for preventing osteoporosis. The most important nutritional factor in prevention of osteoporosis is adequate intake of dietary calcium. Adequate intakes of phosphorus, magnesium, fluoride, boron and vitamins D, K, C, B6 are also necessary for bone health. Chronically low intakes of those components (particularly if coexisting) may predispose to osteoporosis.