As well as ingesting the right amount of nutrients, the body needs to appropriately absorb them. Some nutrients and cofactors, such as vitamin D, have been shown to enhance the absorption of nutrients that are needed for bones and joints.
Vitamin D3 is needed for calcium absorption across the gut wall. Many people do not get enough vitamin D each day to protect their bones. Vitamin D supplementation is recommended for ‘at risk’ individuals.
L-lysine is an amino acid that enhances intestinal calcium absorption. L-lysine also plays an important role in the formation of collagen, which is needed to hold the minerals together in the bone and provide protection against breakage.
Lactobacillus reuteri is found in a healthy digestive system, which is needed for the optimum absorption of nutrients to support bone health.
Piperine is derived from black pepper and is often used to enhance nutrient absorption. Piperine inhibits certain enzymes and affects intestinal cells, improving absorption of curcumin (boosting bioavailability by up to 2,000%), selenium and vitamin B6.
Zinc is also needed for bones, as it contributes to the maintenance of normal bones and aids with the strength of bones and joints. Zinc is essential for osteoblast activity, which is essential for bone building. Adequate zinc levels are associated with a higher bone density in older individuals.
Silica is one of the essential minerals in bone. Silica is essential for the enzyme that cross-links collagen fibres, helping give bone its flexibility and resilience.