CALCIUM AND VITAMIN D
Two nutrients currently receiving a great deal of attention are calcium and 
Vitamin D. This is in part because inadequate levels of Vitamin D in the body have recently been linked to higher risk for a host of diseases (including multiple sclerosis, dementia, Alzheimer's, certain cancers, heart disease, and all-cause mortality). It is also because many populations living in wealthy areas such as the EU, UK and U.S. have been seeing a decrease in their bone-strength (e.g. osteoporosis). And it is calcium (with the help of Vitamin D, Magnesium, and other nutrients) that is the primary raw material for making and maintaining strong bones.
This increasing trend for weak bones has contributed to the popularity of calcium supplementation. Yet those populations around the globe that consume the most calcium (such as Americans in the U.S.) actually have the highest rate of osteoporosis. And often those in other populations (with different lifestyles) who consume much less have bones that are surprisingly stronger. In the end, it seems that calcium intake is not the most important factor for having strong bones. Rather it comes down to three others: 1) quantity and type of exercise, 2) dietary intake, aka food, and 3) Vitamin D via sun-exposure, certain foods or supplementation.
Safe, health-promoting exercise and strong bones are mutually dependent. Movement that is both vigorous and safe requires strong bones to support it. At the same time, maintaining an active, movement-based lifestyle is key to having strong bones. This, coupled with elevated rates of osteoporosis and people seeking healthy ways to treat it, is why bone health is an important sub-topic for the Axis Syllabus student and practitioner.
SUPPLEMENTATION: Part 1 of 7 SUPPLEMENTATION: Part 3 of 7 SUPPLEMENTATION: Part 4 of 7 SUPPLEMENTATION: Part 5 of 7 SUPPLEMENTATION: Part 6 of 7
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