Bones are dynamic, specialized connective tissue that play an integral role in maintaining the proper functioning of the body. Healthy bones are strong and dense, and play the following essential roles in the body:
- providing support for body structure and muscle attachment, allowing us to move and exercise freely
- protecting vital organs
- housing bone marrow, where blood and bone cells are formed
- participating in hormonal homeostasis
- serving as a storage depot for minerals like calcium and phosphorus
Given this remarkable range of responsibilities, bone health is multifaceted and inextricably linked to other organ systems (e.g., muscular, endocrine, and gastrointestinal).