Which nutrient is crucial for maintaining healthy bones?

Calcium is essential for maintaining healthy bones as it plays a vital role in bone formation, strength, and density. The body requires adequate calcium to build and maintain bone mass throughout life. It is a major structural component of bones and teeth, helping to ensure their integrity and durability.

In addition to building bones, calcium also supports the functioning of muscle cells and the proper signaling of nerve cells, both of which are closely linked to overall bone health. A sufficient intake of calcium, particularly during childhood and adolescence when bone mass is being built, is critical for preventing conditions like osteoporosis later in life.

While iron, sodium, and vitamin B12 are important nutrients for various bodily functions, they do not have the same direct impact on bone health as calcium. Iron is primarily involved in oxygen transport in the blood, sodium helps regulate fluid balance, and vitamin B12 is crucial for red blood cell formation and neurological function. However, they do not contribute significantly to the structural integrity of bones.