Body myths busted: Sorting facts from the fiction about our bones
How much do we really know about our skeletons? Here, we sort the fact from the fiction
Did you know there are more than 200 bones in our bodies? Our skeletons don’t just support our bodies, each bone has a vital role too. But how much do we really know about boosting our bone health? From discovering the best bone-friendly foods to revealing the top workouts to keep bones strong, it’s time to get skeleton savvy…
‘OSTEOPOROSIS IS A PROGRESSIVE CONDITION, SO YOUR BONES BECOME MORE FRAGILE AS YOU GET OLDER’
MYTH Exercising in my youth will keep my bones healthy as I age
BUSTED While exercising when you’re young helps build skeleton strength, maintaining this fitness as you age is key to preserving this strength. ‘It can help delay the rate of age-related bone loss,’ explains Prof Craig Sale, professor of human physiology at Nottingham Trent University. He recommends highintensity, high-impact and multidirectional movements – think Zumba, netball or circuit training – while running can increase bone density.
MYTH Being underweight is healthier for your bones
BUSTED Being a healthy weight (Body Mass Index (BMI) between 19 and 24) is best for your bones. Being overweight can put extra stress on your body, but having a BMI below 19 can also put you at risk. Your bones usually have a lower density and you’re more likely to suffer from osteoporosis. To check out your BMI, visit nhs.uk and search for the BMI calculator.