A low calcium intake during the growing years limits the bones’ ability to achieve an optimal mass and density. Most people achieve a peak bone mass by about age 30, and dense bones protect against age- related bone loss and fracture. Starting before the age of 40, all adults lose bone as they grow older. When bone loss reaches the point at which bones fracture under common, everyday stresses, the condition is known as osteoporosis. Today, worldwide, this is one of the most prevalent diseases of aging. For instance, in the US, it afflicts more than 25 million people, mostly older women. Unlike many diseases that make themselves known through symptoms such as pain, shortness of breath, skin lesions, tiredness, and the like, osteoporosis is silent. The body sends no signals saying bone loss is occurring. Blood samples offer no clues because blood calcium remains normal regardless of bone content, and measures of bone density are rarely taken. However, there are various strategies to protect against bone loss, and eating calcium-rich foods is only one of them.