Complex but vital connection between gut health and bone strength.

The important key to prevent fragile bones

Bone strength plays an important role in activities of daily living.Latest research has unearthed a fascinating connect between gut health and bone health, shedding light on the complex interplay between these seemly unrelated aspects of our wellbeing.As our understanding of the human body evolves,it becomes clear that health of our gut may play a pivotal role in maintaining strong and resilient bones.

The gut-bone Axis:unveiling the connection

Our gut is populated with a diverse community of micro-organism-gut microbiome.These microbiome influences various aspect of our health.Above its well known role in digestion and nutrient absorption, the gut microbiome also impact our bones.It is known that bones plays a roles in metabolism whereby any excess nutrients and minerals are stored within the bones.Most people in our society has experienced or suffered from digestive issues due to our lifestyles which is riddled with highly processed and high in preservatives which can results in the damage to gut microbiome.Recent studies have identified a dynamic interaction between gut bacteria and bone metabolism, highlighting the significance of this complex and yet underrated relationship

The effects on bone health

It has becomes clearly with recent research into gut-bone axis that disruptions in gut health may contribute to bone related issues such as osteoporosis and osteopenia.Osteoporosis and osteopenia are bone conditions whereby the bones have decreased bone strength as such are fragile and can be broken a low impact such as hug or falling from a standing height.It is important to acknowledge and recognise the potential implication of an imbalanced gut microbiome on bone health.People with gut issues or digestive issues are encouraged to undergo comprehensive screening measures to assess bone health.

“Osteoporosis is bone conditions whereby the bones becomes porous and fragile and break easily at low impact.”

Dxa Bone density screening

Bone density screening conducted through dual energy -X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) tests, is a gold standard for assessing bone health.It is a simple test using low radiation, whereby the person lay on the padded table and the X-ray tube scans the lower back, hips , and the wrist.The test takes about ten minutes.DXA bone density test can be done as part of holistic approach to screening such as analysing gut microbiome or measuring markers of inflammation as to provide an individual bone and gut health.It is also important that people with gut health challenges should be screened to exclude bone density decline to ensure early detection of osteoporosis

The latest research on gut-bone axis highlights the reason to reconsider our approach to bone health screening.By recognising the influence of gut health on bone health, the society and health professionals can adopt a more comprehensive screening and health checks that addresses both aspects this complex relationship.The holistic approach will enhance our understanding of bone and gut health relations as well as paving the way for more personalised interventions to improved gut and bone health.

References

1.Takimoto T,Hatanaka M, Hoshino T, et al.The gut microbiome modulates energy metabolism

2.Schott EM, Farnsworth CW, Grier A, et al.Targeting the gut microbiome to treat osteoarthritis of obesity.JCI Insights .2018:3(8):e95997.

3.Collins FL,Rios-Arcre ND,Schepper JD,ET al.Beneficial of Vitamin D on falls and fractures:Is cognition rather bone or muscle behind these benefits?Age(dormer).2017,39(4):103