Which micronutrient is essential for bone health?

Calcium is a crucial micronutrient for bone health, as it plays a vital role in the development and maintenance of bones and teeth. Approximately 99% of the body's calcium is stored in bones, where it provides structural strength and stability. During the process of bone formation, calcium combines with other minerals, such as phosphorus, to form hydroxyapatite crystals, which give bones their hardness.

Moreover, calcium is essential for various physiological functions, including muscle contraction, nerve transmission, and blood clotting. Adequate calcium intake, particularly during childhood and adolescence when bones are growing, helps to achieve optimal bone density.

In adulthood, maintaining sufficient calcium intake is necessary to prevent conditions like osteoporosis, where bones become weak and brittle, leading to an increased risk of fractures. Thus, calcium's role in bone metabolism and structural integrity makes it indispensable for bone health.