Plant-based diets and its effects on bone health: from myth to evidence

Abstract

Introduction: diet is one of the most significant and modifiable factors involved in bone health, as an appropriate intake of calcium, vitamin D and proteins, as well as other nutrients, contributes to this. Significant overall health benefits have been attributed to plant-based diets (PBD); however, poorly planned PBD could have detrimental effects on bone health.

Materials and method: a narrative review through a search in the digital biomedical data collection system PubMed whose objective was to analyze currently available scientific evidence about the effects of PBD on bone health.

Results: within the PBD intake patterns, vegans exhibiting calcium intakes below 525mg/day are at a higher risk of fracture due to bone fragility [incidence of fracture: 1.37 (95% CI: 1.07; 1.74)]. In contrast, the role of hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) secondary to vitamin B12 deficiency and fracture risk remains controversial in this population. While in vitro HHcy osteoclast activity may increase, in clinical studies no statistically significant differences in serum crosslaps levels (bone resorption marker) were observed in PBD consumers (vegetarians) when compared to omnivores.

Conclusion: a well-planned, optimal and adequate PBD, covering daily calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12 and proteins requirements, will provide significant benefits to the overall health condition without affecting bone health in particular, although future studies are required in order to better understand its effects on specific aspects of the musculoskeletal system.