Osteoporosis (meaning ‘porous bones’) is a condition that causes bones to become thin, weak and fragile. This occurs when bones lose minerals, such as calcium, faster than the body can replace them. Decreases in bone mineral density and changes in bone quality make bones more fragile and easily broken than bones of ‘normal’ density. As...

Calcium is the most common mineral in the body. This article looks at its metabolism; its promotors and inhibitors; dietary sources; and the role of calcium through the life cycle.