Page 17 - 2018_Healthy LEAP_Coaches Guide_Elementary

Bone Health

What are bones?
• Our body is made up of lots of bones
• Our bones in our body form our skel-
eton
• Bones hold up our body and help us to
move
What is needed for strong bones?
• Calcium
• Vitamin D
• Bone-strengthening exercises
What are good sources of calcium?
• Low-fat or skim milk
• Yogurt
• Low-fat cheese
What are some other good sources of
calcium if I don’t drink milk or eat dairy
products?
• Some foods are fortified which means
that vitamins and nutrients are added
to them
• 100% juice fortified with calcium
• Cereal fortified with calcium
• Vegetables like broccoli and spinach
Why is vitamin D important?
• Vitamin D is very important when it
comes to bone health
• Vitamin D helps your body absorb the
calcium from the foods you eat and
drink
• Sources of vitamin D include sunshine,
milk, fish, cereals and juices fortified
with vitamin D
Why do tweens (9-12 year olds) and teens
need calcium?
• Most tweens do not get enough cal-
cium
• Stronger bones are less likely to break
• Strong bones now can decrease the risk
of developing osteoporosis, a condition
of weak bones, when you are older
• Important for strong teeth, gums and
jawbones

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