The Nutrients Bones Need

Certain nutrients are especially important for developing a strong, healthy skeleton for good growth. These include:

• Calcium – responsible for construction, formation, and maintenance of bones and teeth
• Vitamin D – promotes calcium absorption and helps to form and maintain strong bones
• Phosphorus – combines with calcium to form calcium phosphate, which is the substance that gives the skeleton rigidity
• Magnesium – approximately 50% of total body magnesium is found in bone and contributes to the physical structure of the bone

Tips For Healthy Bones

• Breast milk is the best for babies. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and should be continued for as long as possible.
• Don’t forget the calcium – make sure milk and other calcium-rich foods are part of your child’s diet every day (500 mg/day is recommended for children 1-3 years old, 600mg/day for those aged 4-6 years, and 700mg/day for 7-9 year olds).¹
• Balance your diet – include vitamins and minerals necessary for bone health and a well-balanced diet.
• Absorb all you can – vitamin D is necessary for calcium absorption.
• Be active – in addition to a healthy diet, exercise is fundamental for bone development. Provide the opportunity for age-appropriate, safe physical activity on a regular basis.