And while calcium is the primary mineral found in bones, other minerals like magnesium, zinc, phosphorous and boron also play a crucial role in maintaining bone strength and integrity.

Recent studies are also bringing to light the importance of nutrients not previously associated with bone health. Certain B vitamins, for example, lower a toxic body chemical known as homocysteine which can greatly increase the risk of fractures in both men and women. And studies have found that vitamin K, a nutrient not found in most multivitamin supplements, may significantly improve bone mineral density.

Even phytonutrients, like the isoflavones found in soy, the polyphenols found in green tea and certain antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables, have been found to have a beneficial impact on chemical reactions in the body that affect bone health.

Nutrients almost always work best in groups or families, as they are found in whole foods. And even though research and media attention has focused almost solely on calcium as the principle nutrient needed for bone health, in the end we will probably find that it takes the subtle interplay of a wide variety of nutrients to keep bones healthy and strong.