Watch: [Understanding Your Body] Bones

⭐English subtitles available⭐

 

 

There are about 200 bones in the human body.

 

These bones possess a remarkably strong structure, allowing them to support our body

while also protecting vital organs such as the heart and brain.

 

They also aid in the contraction and relaxation of muscles

and serve as a reservoir for minerals like calcium and phosphorus.

 

However, problems with these bones can lead to various health issues.

 

Protecting bone health begins with a thorough understanding of our bones

 

The bones in our body vary in shape and characteristics depending on their location and function,

yet their structure is largely similar.

 

To the naked eye, bones consist of a hard outer layer called compact bone

and a sponge-like inner layer known as spongy bone.

 

Within the spaces of the spongy bone lies the marrow,

a hematopoietic area responsible for producing blood cells

such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

 

The outer part of the bone is covered by a thick membrane known as the periosteum.

 

This periosteum is rich in blood vessels and nerves, making it highly sensitive.

As a result, it can register pain when abnormalities such as fractures or inflammation occur.

 

About 15% of these bones are known to be replaced by new bone cells each year.

 

This process involves bone-building cells called osteoblasts

and bone-destroying cells called osteoclasts.

 

Through the activity of these cells, our bones become thicker and longer as we grow,

while older bones that have stopped growing are broken down and absorbed to maintain balance.

 

Essential bone components include collagen, calcium, and minerals such as phosphorus.

 

Among these, calcium plays a crucial role in the processes of bone formation and resorption.

 

Of the calcium in our body, 99% is found in the bones,

with only 1% present in the blood, extracellular fluid, and muscles.

 

However, when there is a deficiency of calcium in the blood,

the osteoclasts that break down bone will absorb calcium from the bones into the bloodstream.

 

Depending on the extent of this process,

conditions such as osteopenia or osteoporosis can develop in the bones.

 

When osteoporosis occurs,

bones can become painful and may fracture easily from minor impacts, leading to further pain.

 

Especially in postmenopausal women,

the decrease in estrogen levels can lead to a higher susceptibility to osteoporosis.

 

Recently, excessive dieting has become a common cause of osteoporosis among young women,

while smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also impact bone density.

 

Another cause of weakened bones is a lack of stimulation.

 

For instance, astronauts spending extended periods in zero-gravity environment

or patients bedridden for a long time can experience bone and muscle weakening.

 

Sufficient stimulation is essential for strengthening both bones and muscles.

 

For healthy bones, it is essential to maintain a balanced diet,

avoid excessive alcohol consumption,

engage in moderate weight-bearing exercises such as walking,

and ensure adequate sun exposure for vitamin D synthesis.