Is Your Fridge Stocked with Milk? Here’s Why It Matters!

Dairy milk is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, and this trend couldn't come at a more crucial time for bone health in the U.S. Over the years, calcium consumption has plunged while factors contributing to weakened bones have increased. Many Americans are spending excessive time indoors, sitting for prolonged periods, obtaining insufficient vitamin D, and engaging in limited weight-bearing exercises. This has triggered a growing yet understated crisis: a significant decline in bone strength at increasingly younger ages. As the Chief of Endocrinology and Metabolic Bone Disease Services at the Hospital for Special Surgery, I observe a common misconception: that bone loss is an inevitable aspect of aging. However, nurturing bone health is crucial throughout life. Insufficient calcium intake is leading to complications that could manifest earlier than anticipated. It’s imperative for both patients and healthcare providers to emphasize bone health through improved education, proactive habits, and preventive measures long before fractures occur.