What is the determining stage of skeletal development? Childhood is the period of fastest growth and the most critical stage for bone development. The development during this period directly determines a person's physical parameters such as height and chest circumference. The development of bones is closely related to various nutrients, such as calcium, vitamin D, vitamin A, zinc, etc. Any nutrient deficiency can affect the bone development of adolescents. According to the survey, the most lacking nutrients that affect bone development among teenagers are as follows:
1. Calcium: 98% of calcium in the human body exists in bones and teeth, and calcium is the main raw material that makes up the human bones. Calcium deficiency in children and adolescents can lead to rickets, chicken breasts, X-shaped legs, O-shaped legs, and stunted growth. At present, the calcium intake of children and adolescents in China is less than half of the recommended supply, which is seriously insufficient. Therefore, they need to supplement 4 milligrams per day.
2. Vitamin D: Vitamin D promotes the absorption of calcium. Without vitamin D, the human body cannot absorb calcium. It is recommended to supplement 5 micrograms of vitamin D daily to promote calcium absorption.
3. Vitamin A: Vitamin A can promote bone growth and strengthen teeth. If lacking, it can lead to darkening of tooth enamel and shorter stature. The intake of vitamin A by Chinese adolescents is only half of the supply, and it is generally lacking, which affects vision and bone development. Experts suggest supplementing with 400 micrograms per day.
4. Zinc: After zinc deficiency in the body, metabolism is blocked, cell division stops, and if teenagers are deficient in zinc during their growth and development period, it can lead to developmental disorders. Severe deficiency can also cause dwarfism. Experts suggest supplementing with 10 milligrams per day.
Children and adolescents are in a critical period of physical growth and knowledge development, during which bone growth and development are very rapid. Increasing their intake of dairy products appropriately can help them grow healthily. Milk contains almost all nutrients, and drinking milk can ensure normal bone development in children. It is recommended that children and adolescents maintain appropriate intake of dairy products throughout their growth and development process, drinking at least 250 grams of fresh milk per day to ensure healthy bone development and prevent osteoporosis in adulthood.
