Mediterranean diet and osteoporosis prevention

As a result of the demographic shift towards an ageing population, all industrialized countries face a growing prevalence of chronic age-related conditions, particularly osteoporosis. This multifaceted disease is defined as "a systemic skeletal disorder" characterised by low bone mass and micro-architectural deterioration of bone tissue, which results in increased bone fragility and susceptibility to fracture. Two main categories have been suggested: post-menopausal and senile osteoporosis. The prevention of osteoporosis through dietary means is especially challenging in technologically advanced societies. Indeed, within Europe, conspicuous differences are encountered in the severity of osteoporosis, the lowest incidence being reported in the Mediterranean area. The beneficial effect is attributed mainly to specific eating pattern. These food items contain a complex array of naturally occurring bioactive molecules with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and alkalinising properties, that may contribute to the bone-sparing effect of Mediterranean diet.