Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology

142 Chapter 7

Health Alert

Strong Bones

In order to maintain strong and healthy bones

throughout our lives, it is important to maintain

a balanced diet with a daily intake of calcium.

We can do this by con-suming dairy products

such as milk, yogurt, and cheeses. In addition

to diet, a regular regimen of exercise is also

important. As bones are developing in children

and ado-lescents, it is important to increase

calcium intake and exercise more rigorously.

As we mature we still require calcium;

however,

we require it in smaller amounts. Daily ex-

ercise, as simplistic as walking in older age

and running or playing sports in middle age,

will help maintain a healthy skeletal system.

When playing sports, walking, or running, it is

crucial to wear proper foot at-tire with arch

supports and a good fit. This will prevent

future problems with bones of the feet. Proper

posture during walking and sitting will also

maintain healthy and strong bones.

Parietal

bone

Superior part:

occipital bone

Inferior part:

occipital bone

Temporal bone

Vertebrae

Styloid process of
temporal bone^
(A)

Figure 7- 3 (A) Intramembranous ossification of the cranial
bones.

Frontal

bone

Zygomatic

bone

Nasal

bone

Maxilla

Sphenoid bone

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kidneys and via the digestive system. The proper calcium
ion concentration in the blood and bones is controlled by
the endocrine system. Two hormones, calcitonin (produced
by the thyroid gland) and parathormone

(produced by the parathyroids), control the calcium

concentration in our bodies. Calcitonin causes calcium to

be stored in the bones; parathormone causes it to be

released into the bloodstream.