Nutritionists: Protein Matters for Bone Health Alongside Calcium
Nutritionists explain that protein makes up about half of bone tissue volume and is needed for collagen synthesis. Getting enough of it helps preserve bones and muscles with age.
When bone health comes up, calcium is usually the first thing mentioned, but nutritionists say protein is just as important. Latvian newspaper Latvijas Avīze reported this on 6 November 2026, citing specialists. It is especially relevant for people who lose bone and muscle mass as they age.
What protein does
Nutritionist Laura Raita explains that protein accounts for roughly half of bone tissue volume. It forms the foundation that calcium and other minerals later strengthen.
Protein supplies the body with amino acids needed for collagen synthesis. Certified nutritionist Beta Gudridža notes that collagen gives bones strength and a degree of elasticity, helping them withstand impacts. Amino acids are also needed for the cells that take part in building new bone tissue and help maintain bone strength.
Links to muscles and ageing
Protein also helps maintain lean body mass, including muscle. This matters because during strength exercises muscles tense the tendons attached to bones.
Raita stresses that with age people naturally lose both bone and muscle mass, which raises the risk of falls and fractures. Adequate protein intake helps preserve muscle, supports bone tissue renewal and improves calcium absorption.
The original publication also mentions seven protein-rich foods, but the list is not included in the source text available.
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