Publisher's Synopsis
This volume examines genetic, hormonal, and environmental influences on skeletal development and explores the impact of nutrition on bone mass growth from prenatal life through postadolescence. Coverage includes detailed studies of nutritional and other environmental factors that affect skeletal mass at birth and bone growth in preterm and full-term infants.;Close attention is given to the calcium requirements of infants and lactating mothers and the role of vitamin D, calcium, proteins, and fluoride in bone mass acquisition during childhood and adolescence. The molecular mechanisms whereby calcium, amino acids, and fluoride affect bone formation, resorption, and matrix mineralization are examined. Other contributors discuss the impact of delayed puberty, malnutrition, anorexia nervosa, exercise-associated amenorrhea, cystic fibrosis, and various endocrinopathies on bone development. The book also includes a review of quantitative imaging techniques for assessing bone mass.