Can adequate sleep prevent osteoporosis? Study sheds light

In a study from the University of Colorado Department of Medicine, researchers investigated whether adequate sleep can help prevent osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by weakening bones, making them fragile and more prone to fractures. Factors such as aging, hormonal changes, inadequate calcium and vitamin D intake, lack of physical activity, and certain medications can increase the risk of developing osteoporosis.

In their early to mid-20s, individuals reach peak bone mineral density, which is higher in men than in women and influences fracture risk later in life. Bone density remains stable for decades after this peak but declines during menopause for women and with age for men. Aging also alters sleep patterns, reducing total sleep time and increasing sleep latency. Additionally, deep restorative sleep, called slow wave sleep, decreases with age.

“Genes regulating our internal clock exist in all bone cells. When these cells form or break down bone, they release substances into the blood, indicating bone turnover. These markers follow a daily rhythm, with bone resorption markers showing a larger amplitude than bone formation markers. This rhythmicity likely plays a crucial role in bone metabolism, implying that disruptions in sleep and circadian rhythms may directly impact bone health,” said Christine Swanson, an associate professor in the Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes.

In this study, participants were placed in a controlled inpatient environment where they lived on a 28-hour schedule instead of the typical 24-hour day. Bone turnover markers were measured before and after the intervention, revealing significant negative effects on bone turnover.

Both men and women experienced declines in markers of bone formation, with younger individuals showing greater declines compared to older individuals. In addition, young women showed significant increase in the bone resorption marker.

“If a person is forming less bone while still resorbing the same amount — or even more — then, over time, that could lead to bone loss, osteoporosis, and increased fracture risk. And sex and age may play an important role, with younger women potentially being the most susceptible to the detrimental impact of poor sleep on bone health,” said Swanson.

Reference: Christine Swanson, MD, MCR; Could Getting Enough Sleep Help Prevent Osteoporosis? May 2024; UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO ANSCHUTZ MEDICAL CAMPUS