Potassium salts (bicarbonate and citrate) play a key role in improving bone health according recent research from the University of Surrey. The study’s results indicate that these potassium salts reduce bone resorption, therefore increasing their strength.
A university news release notes that the study appears in the journal Osteoporosis International. Its results also suggest that high intake of potassium salts significantly reduces the excretion of calcium and acid in urine.
Helen Lambert, PhD, lead author, University of Surrey, explains that this indicates excess acid is neutralized and bone mineral is preserved.
“Excess acid in the body, produced as a result of a typical Western diet high in animal and cereal protein, causes bones to weaken and fracture. Our study shows that these salts could prevent osteoporosis, as our results showed a decrease in bone resorption,” Lambert says.
The release states that osteoporosis impacts almost 3 million individuals in the UK. Additionally, one in two women and one in five men older than 50 years of age will break a bone as a result of poor bone health.
The study recommends consuming more fruits and vegetables to improve bone strength and prevent osteoporosis.
Source: University of Surrey
