Which statement about building maximal bone mass is accurate?

Which statement about building maximal bone mass is accurate?

• A. Exercise has no effect on bone density
• B. Only genetics determine osteoporosis
• C. Building maximal bone mass in childhood and adolescence reduces osteoporosis risk, with physical activity and adequate nutrients strengthening density
• D. Calcium supplementation alone prevents osteoporosis

Answer: (C)

Building maximal bone mass during childhood and adolescence sets the stage for stronger bones later in life. This period is when bone mass is most rapidly accrued, and the amount reached—often called peak bone mass—helps determine osteoporosis risk decades down the line. Mechanical strain from weight-bearing and resistance activities stimulates bone formation, encouraging osteoblasts to lay down bone tissue. At the same time, adequate nutrients provide the material bone needs to mineralize and mature properly. Calcium supplies the mineral for bone, while vitamin D aids calcium absorption and bone metabolism; other nutrients and overall nutrition also support healthy bone development. Genetics sets a potential ceiling, but the actual peak bone mass achieved is strongly influenced by lifestyle and nutrition during growth.

So a statement that emphasizes physical activity during growth and adequate nutrients as factors strengthening bone density and reducing later osteoporosis risk captures what maximizes peak bone mass. In contrast, claiming exercise has no effect, or that osteoporosis is determined solely by genetics, or that calcium alone prevents osteoporosis misses the broader, dynamic picture of how bone mass is built and maintained.