Health of the Musculoskeletal System: Effects of Nutrients and Global Musculoskeletal Mechanisms

In this paper, Coxam et al. analyze the global mechanisms by which aging alters protein, lipid, carbohydrate, and phospho-calcium metabolism, leading to skeletal demineralization (osteopenia), trabecular deterioration, sarcopenia, and increased fat mass. Drawing on Frost’s Mechanostat theory, they identify the bone mineral content/muscle area ratio as a key index of the muscle-bone unit. The authors argue that nutritional prevention must simultaneously address bone, muscle, and adipose tissue rather than focusing solely on calcium/vitamin D for bone and protein for muscle. They highlight a variety of dietary molecules capable of preserving musculoskeletal health and preventing dysmobility syndrome.