Bone Metabolism

Research Overview

More than 10 million Americans over age 50 currently have osteoporosis and more than 33 million have low bone mass. These numbers are expected to increase by 40% in the next 15 years. Heredity, diet, and other lifestyle factors contribute to the problem. Of the dietary constituents, calcium and vitamin D have received the most attention, but there is growing evidence that other components of the diet are also important.

The objective of The Bone Metabolism Laboratory is to improve the understanding of how the diet impacts bone health in older men and women. Current nutrients of interest are calcium, vitamin D, protein, and the acid-base balance of the diet. We are currently investigating novel determinants and mechanisms of calcium absorption, are examining mechanisms by which vitamin D influences bone and muscle, and are working to refine estimates of optimal vitamin D status in men and women of different ethnic backgrounds. Dietary protein has many effects on the calcium economy- some positive and some negative. A current objective of the laboratory is to better understand the circumstances under which dietary protein may have its most favorable effect on bone.

Capabilities

Measurement capability of this laboratory includes calcium absorption by a variety of methods, DXA regional and whole body scanning, heel bone mineral density scanning, measurement of vitamin D metabolites in blood and fat tissue by GC-MS.

Related Links (not HNRCA-sponsored)

NIH Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases - National Resource Center

Learn More

For more information about the Bone Metabolism Laboratory, please visit the USDA, Agricultural Research Service.

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Vitamins, Diet Important To Strong Bones

Volunteer for a current research study:
Vitamin D and Muscle Strength Study
Purpose: To determine the effect of vitamin D, which may improve muscle function and decrease the risk of falling.

Vitamin D and Blood Sugar Control
Purpose: To examine whether adding a vitamin D supplement will improve blood measures related to diabetes risk.