The growing years and prevention of osteoporosis in later life

Ca is the major mineral in bone, and 99 % of the Ca in the body resides in the skeleton. Skeletal mass is a determinant of risk of fracture in childho od as well as adulthood. Over 40 % of adult peak bone mass is acquired duri ng adolescence. This period is when lifestyle choices, including ensuring a dequate dietary Ca, regular weight-bearing exercise and avoiding hormonal i nsufficiency, are especially important. Current Ca intakes for adolescent f emales are woefully inadequate.