Poor bone health is becoming an increasingly common and worrying health problem. An expert weighs in on the main causes of weak bones in children and what can be done to strengthen them.
Bones are an integral part of a child’s overall health, and their development begins very early in life to sustain a strong and active life. Bones are the blueprint for the structure of the body. The need to ensure optimal bone health in children assumes greater importance in a country like India due to various environmental, dietary and lifestyle factors. However, many challenges pose a potential threat to the development of healthy bones in Indian children and underscore the need for targeted solutions.
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Bone health challenges in Indian children
- Nutritional deficiencies: The biggest challenge to Indian children’s bone health comes from nutritional deficiencies. India.com got in touch with Dr Neeraj Gupta, Consultant, Pediatric Orthopedics, Orthopedics and Joint Replacement, Manipal Hospital, Ghaziabad. He explained that calcium and vitamin D are the two most indispensable amounts of bone-building nutrients, but most children lack either of them. The average Indian diet, particularly among poor rural and urban populations, has inadequate dairy products and green leafy vegetables to provide meager calcium intake. Also, low levels of vitamin D are expected to be common due to limited sun exposure – vitamin D is manufactured in the skin from sun exposure.
- Sedentary lifestyle: The impact of digital technology on children’s lives is leading them to engage in more indoor activities, such as playing video games, watching television, etc., and to develop a sedentary lifestyle. Physical activity is as important for bone health as it is for bone formation and strength. Growing concerns about the lack of regular exercise and outdoor play in urban areas further increases the risk of bone weakness.
- Without exposure to vitamin D: Some cultural practices also weaken bone health. For example, the popular cultural practice of keeping infants and toddlers indoors during the early morning hours prohibits them from exposure to sunlight, which could lead to vitamin D deficiency.
- Juvenile arthritis: This is a form of arthritis in children that causes joint swelling, inflammation and stiffness. While children may outgrow the disease, it affects bone development at an early age.
- Delayed puberty: Late onset of puberty can also affect bone health. According to different research, late puberty can affect bone mineral density, which can lead to the risk of osteoporosis.
Expert-backed methods to improve bone health
- Nutritional diet: It is essential to pay attention to dietary practices in children’s growing age. Emphasis should be placed on the intake of calcium-rich foods such as milk, cheese, yogurt, green leafy vegetables and other foods fortified with vitamin D and calcium to compensate for nutritional deficiency. Children at higher risk may also be given these nutrients in the form of supplements, if recommended by a physician.
- Physical activity: Physical activities such as running, jumping and playing sports outdoors are very beneficial for developing strong bone density. This means that it is essential to encourage children to participate in regular physical activities, as well as providing schools and neighborhoods with safe and accessible play and exercise areas.
- Sun exposure: Allowing your child to spend some time outdoors, especially in the early morning or evening when the sun is not too hot, can also help boost their vitamin D levels. Even in an urban environment, this can be achieved by organizing a routine and having adequate playtime to challenge them with outdoor activities.
Bone health in Indian children is an issue of concern that has recently increased due to a number of factors including sedentary lifestyle and nutritional deficiencies. Specific treatments aimed at increasing physical activity, improving nutrition and getting enough sun exposure can successfully address these issues. Children in India can be ensured to grow up with strong, healthy bones needed for an active and fulfilling life when bone health is prioritized.
