OSTEOPOROSIS: A "C" CHANGE
Vitamin C Slows Down Bone Loss in Men
It's not just calcium that can prevent bone loss. Several studies over the years have suggested that eating a steady diet of fruits and vegetables also may help to strengthen bones. Now, researchers at Tufts University believe that it is the Vitamin C in these fruits and vegetables that helps to protect against bone loss-at least in elderly men. The study did not show similar results for women. It is estimated that two million men in this country have osteoporosis.
Researchers tracked the diets of a group of men and women for four years and routinely measured bone mineral density in their hips, spines and forearms. The result was most significant in men who had low calcium and Vitamin E in their diets. Some of the men who had the strongest bones also had taken Vitamin C supplements, but researchers say it is too early to make a recommendation about supplements.
It is believed that not only does Vitamin C protect against inflammation, which can contribute to bone loss-it also creates collagen, which helps keep bones strong.