Vegetarian diet and bone fractures any connection?
Vegetarian diet and bone fractures any connection?
The Impact of Vegetarian Diets on Bone Fracture Risk

Photo by Anastasia Mihaylova (Shpara)/Stocksy
What people choose to eat has a significant impact on their overall well-being. In recent years, more and more people have been embracing vegetarian diets for various reasons, including health, environmental, and ethical considerations. While the benefits of a vegetarian lifestyle are well-known, a new study sheds light on a potential risk associated with this dietary choice – an increased risk of hip fractures.
The study, conducted in the UK, aimed to investigate the risk of hip fractures among individuals who followed different dietary patterns, including vegetarianism. Surprisingly, the findings indicated that both men and women following a vegetarian diet were at a higher risk of experiencing hip fractures compared to meat-eaters or pescatarians.
The researchers hypothesized that the increased risk could be due to the lower body mass index (BMI) among participants who followed a vegetarian diet. Participants with a lower BMI may have weaker muscles and bones, leading to an increased risk of fractures. Additionally, the authors suggested that inadequate protein and other key nutrients in vegetarian diets may also contribute to the heightened risk. Further research is needed to explore these potential risk factors in more detail.
The study, published in BMC Medicine, involved over 400,000 participants from England, Scotland, and Wales aged 40-69 years. The participants were divided into four groups based on their dietary habits – regular meat-eaters, occasional meat-eaters, pescatarians, and vegetarians (including both dairy/egg-consumers and vegans).
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Over an average follow-up period of twelve and a half years, the researchers found that individuals who followed a vegetarian diet had a 50% higher risk of hip fractures compared to the other dietary groups. The risk was consistent across both genders. However, it is important to note that the increased risk translated to only three more hip fractures per 1,000 people over the course of 10 years, highlighting the overall low absolute risk.
While the study provides valuable insights, it does have its limitations. The observational nature of the research means that it cannot establish a definitive cause-and-effect relationship between vegetarian diets and hip fractures. Additionally, the study did not specifically examine vegans, who may have distinct dietary patterns that could affect their fracture risk.
Nevertheless, the findings emphasize the need for vegetarians to be mindful of their nutrient intake to reduce the risk of bone fractures. Adequate protein intake is particularly crucial for building and maintaining bone mass. Vegetarians may find it helpful to consult with a registered dietitian or healthcare professional to ensure they are consuming a balanced diet that meets their nutritional requirements.
Incorporating alternative plant sources of nutrients commonly found in animal products is important for vegetarians. Calcium, for instance, can be obtained from plant sources such as broccoli, almonds, and white beans, as well as fortified products like cereals and orange juice. Vitamin B12, predominantly found in animal-derived foods, may require special attention for strict vegans. Fortified foods and supplements can help meet their vitamin B12 needs.
It is essential to remember that the health benefits of a vegetarian diet extend beyond fracture risk. Vegetarian diets have been associated with a lower risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease. Moreover, the study found no difference in hip fracture risk between occasional and regular meat-eaters, suggesting that reducing meat consumption may not significantly impact fracture risk.
While further research is needed to confirm the link between vegetarian diets and hip fractures, individuals can make informed decisions by integrating a variety of plant-based proteins, ensuring sufficient intake of calcium and vitamin B12, and maintaining a well-rounded diet that promotes overall health.

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In conclusion, adopting a vegetarian lifestyle can offer numerous health benefits. However, as with any dietary choice, it is crucial to be aware of potential risks. By understanding the impact of vegetarian diets on bone health and ensuring a well-balanced intake of essential nutrients, individuals can mitigate potential risks and enjoy the many advantages of a vegetarian lifestyle.