Retrospective Examination of Dietary Habits and Their Association with Bone Density in Elderly Populations

Abstract

Background: The aging global population, elderly bone health is crucial. Diet is one of many factors that affect bone density, a key bone health indicator. This study examines food consumption and bone density in the elderly to identify which food habits increase bone density.

Methods: This retrospective analysis comprised 125 people aged 65 to 89 who met strict health and age criteria. Protein, calcium, and vitamin D intake was measured using dietary health record and food diaries. We measured bone density with DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) images. Food consumption and bone density were linked using statistical software-based correlation and regression analyses.

Results: Higher calcium consumption (≥1,000 mg/day) was associated with better bone density, per the study. The association was substantial (r = 0.45, p < 0.01). The study found a moderate positive correlation (r = 0.35, p < 0.05) for vitamin D intake and a lesser positive correlation (r = 0.30, p < 0.05) for protein intake. The regression analysis indicated that calcium and vitamin D consumption predicted bone density, while protein consumption had a smaller but still significant effect.

Conclusion: The findings emphasize the importance of vitamin D and calcium for elderly bone health. Even though these nutrients were beneficial, many participants did not get enough. Dietary interventions may be needed. Balanced nutrition prevents bone density loss and supports older adults' health, according to this study.