Bones have a natural way of preventing fractures and preserving wellness, but if we lack certain proteins then we might stop this process working as well as it could, suggests a new study. A group of universities from the USA recently pinpointed the proteins involved in this protective mechanism, which could help us safeguard our bones from damage by changing our diets.
The process
When our bones come under stress our wellbeing can become affected. One way that cells in our bones reduce the chances of fractures is to actually form tiny holes around stress sites. These holes are the result of gaps between two proteins called osteopontin and osteocalcin. When nano-holes like these are created they offset the pressure that leads to the problem in the first place, which cuts the chance of further damage happening to surrounding tissue.
Role of protein
This study sheds light for the first time on why the protein osteocalcin could reduce the amount of fractures in our bones. If we lack the amino acids that make up osteocalcin, then we may potentially be putting our bone health at risk. This is especially important for sufferers of osteoporosis, who suffer from fragile bones and are more likely to get fractures, then those who do not.
Boosting osteocalcin
Eating healthily is good for our wellbeing, whether we suffer from osteoporosis or not. But if we have the condition or are at higher risk of being diagnosed with it, then it’s particularly important we look at our diet to check it includes the vitamins and minerals that produce healthy bone cells and osteocalcin. Vitamin K found in green leafy vegetables is an effective way to increase osteocalcin levels, and remembering to eat calcium and Vitamin D also feeds bone cells. Progestogen is a hormone that when taken in supplement form as also been linked to stronger bones.
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