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Former mbg Supplement Editor
Former mbg Supplement Editor
Morgan Chamberlain is mindbodygreen’s former supplement editor. She graduated from Syracuse University with a Bachelor of Science degree in magazine journalism and a minor in nutrition.
Image by BONNINSTUDIO / Stocksy
August 07, 2024
Osteoporosis—a condition in which bones become fragile from loss of tissue, often from deficiency of calcium and/or vitamin D—affects approximately 10 million Americans1 over the age of 50.
What’s more, the likelihood of developing osteoporosis over the age of 80 increases by 30% in men and 47% in women2, according to a 2017 review from Osteoporosis International.
It’s clear that musculoskeletal health becomes a top concern later in life—and maintaining vitamin D sufficiency can help support your bone longevity in a major way.
The connection between vitamin D & osteoporosis
As we age, we lose bone density, and without adequate vitamin D, calcium can’t be used to support optimal bone integrity.
According to a 2021 review in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, vitamin D deficiency (VDD) accelerates bone turnover, loss, and fractures4. So it’s no surprise that VDD (which already impacts 29% of all U.S. adults5) is extremely prevalent in older adults with osteoporosis.
How to achieve & maintain vitamin D sufficiency as you age
The most effective way to reach and sustain healthy vitamin D status at any age is through quality, consistent vitamin D supplementation. Look for a supplement that delivers 5,000 IU of vitamin D3—bonus points if it also includes healthy fats for optimized absorption. (Check out mindbodygreen’s roundup of the best vitamin D supplements for a list of products that fit the bill.)
The takeaway
Bone integrity and muscle strength decrease as we age, and vitamin D deficiency can expedite musculoskeletal conditions like osteoporosis.
To ensure you maintain healthy muscles and bones as you get older, make sure you’re getting sufficient vitamin D to achieve and maintain sufficiency and support your musculoskeletal system.
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