Osteoporosis and Peak Bone Mass

Calcium is an essential mineral needed for bone health. A calcium deficiency in a young person accounts for a five to ten percent difference in peak bone mass. This increases the risk for bone fractures, particularly, a hip fracture, in later years. In the United States, teenage girls are less likely to get enough calcium than teenage boys. It is estimated that fewer than ten percent of girls ages nine to 17 get the daily recommendation of calcium. The recommended daily allowance for calcium is 1,300 mg for boys and girls ages nine to 18.