B for bones

Folic acid--folate--and other B vitamins may help prevent the broken bones associated with osteoporosis. Two major studies appearing in the May 12, 2004 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine conclude that a higher intake of folate protects against fractures.

Hip fractures are the leading cause of elderly people being forced into nursing homes. And fractures lead to death within a year for about 20 percent of patients because of complications, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation.

Previously, B vitamins have been linked to a reduced risk of severe birth defects and heart attacks. Also, studies last year found that consumption of fruits and vegetables is associated with relatively high levels of bone density, suggesting a role for carotenoids and other antioxidant phytonutrients in bone health--along with the more traditional bone nutrient calcium.

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