engleski

Determinants of peak bone mass in young women

Background: Many studies indicated that physical activity and calcium supplementation are beneficial for achiving and perserving adequate bone mass. Aims: to analyze the influence of dietary intake and physical activity on bone mass in healthy female student population (N=196), aged 18 to 25 years. Subjects and Methods: Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured, using DXA technique, in spine, proximal femur, distal third of the radius and in total body. The Quantified Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) was used for detailed dietary assessment. Physical activity was recorded by specialized designed questionnaire. Results: significant negative correlation between age and bone mass was found in all skeletal regions except in cortical part of radius. Body weight and physical activity were the most significant positive predictors of bone density in all measured sites. Students who were permanently involved in sport activities (N=55) had significantly higher bone mass in all skeletal regions. Calcium intake did not significantly correlated with bone mass. Conclusion: In this study, physical activity, rather than calcium intake, plays an important role in maximizing bone mass in young people.

Bone mineral density; calcium; physical activity

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