#Bonehealth

Vitamin D is essential for bone health, immune function, and overall well-being. Yet about 41% of people worldwide struggle with insufficient levels, a situation that raises health concerns. While sun exposure naturally sparks vitamin D production in the skin, many experts now advocate dietary supplements as a safer, more consistent way to maintain optimal levels, especially in modern urban settings.

For Thai readers, understanding vitamin D’s role is crucial. The nutrient acts as both a vitamin and a preprohormone that becomes an active hormone in the body. It supports thyroid function, gut microbiome balance, and the absorption of calcium and phosphorus for strong bones. It also influences mood and skin health. However, relying solely on sun exposure can be unreliable and risky. Excessive UV exposure increases the likelihood of skin damage and skin cancer, especially in tropical climates where sun intensity varies.

Calcium is the cornerstone of strong bones and overall vitality. It supports more than just a sturdy skeleton; it helps hair, nails, teeth, and skin stay healthy, and it plays key roles in muscle function, nerve signaling, and hormone release, according to nutrition experts. For many, calcium is essential for maintaining mobility and independence as age progresses.

Women face a heightened risk of bone loss with age, making calcium intake especially important for them. While calcium is vital for everyone, older women are more prone to bone-related issues and should prioritize calcium-rich foods as part of daily eating plans.

With bone health forming the bedrock of overall strength and vitality, the importance of calcium cannot be overstated. As the primary mineral constituent of bones, calcium does more than just fortify your skeletal structure. According to nutrition experts like Natalie Rizzo, it is essential for the health of your hair, nails, teeth, and skin. Additionally, calcium plays vital roles in muscle function, nerve transmission, and hormone secretion, says registered dietitian Frances Largeman-Roth.

For centuries, Thais have trusted the hardy, angular vine known locally as “เพชรสังฆาต” (Phet Sangkhat) to treat a range of ailments—from broken bones and swollen joints to hemorrhoids and digestive woes. Today, Cissus quadrangularis is more than a staple of rural herbal gardens and traditional pharmacies; it is also the subject of cutting-edge scientific research that is uncovering the biochemistry behind its healing power and guiding new applications for health-conscious individuals.

Cissus quadrangularis, known locally as เพชรสังฆาต, has long been a staple in Thai traditional medicine. Thai communities have watched the angular vine help with fractures, swollen joints, and digestive discomfort for generations. Today, researchers in Thailand and beyond are uncovering how its biochemistry supports healing, while honoring its cultural roots.

The plant thrives in homes and farms across Southern Thailand, climbing happily along fence posts. Beloved regionally as สันชะฆาต or สามร้อยต่อ, it belongs to the grape family. Its distinctive knuckled stems are more than a signature appearance; they symbolize a centuries-old tradition of bone-setting and restorative remedies. Thai healers have long depended on these stems to brew powders, poultices, or tonics for bone injuries. This practice sits at the intersection of Thai traditional medicine, Buddhist healing rituals, and community care.

A recent study in Scientific Reports examines how much protein supports bone strength and how everyday meals influence osteoporosis risk. As Thailand’s population ages, clear guidance on bone health matters more than ever for public health.

Researchers led by a registered dietitian nutritionist analyzed data from 16,775 U.S. adults to explore the relationship between protein intake and bone mineral density. The results show a positive link between higher protein intake and stronger bones, with women showing the most noticeable benefits. The study notes a plateau in bone health gains around 61 grams of protein per day for women.