Final answer:
Bone mineral content peaks at age 30 and then generally decreases, with women experiencing more rapid loss post-menopause. Adequate calcium intake and weight-bearing exercise are essential for building peak bone mass to mitigate osteoporosis risk.
Step-by-step explanation:
Bone mineral content is maximized at about the age of 30, reaching its peak during this time for both males and females. After this peak in bone density, bone mass typically decreases, a process that is more pronounced in individuals with XX chromosomes, particularly after menopause due to reduced levels of estrogen which promotes osteoblastic activity and bone matrix production.
To mitigate the risk of osteoporosis, prevention strategies such as adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D, along with weight-bearing exercise, should be implemented from an early age, aiming to build strong bones before the age of 30.
It is crucial for young females, especially during adolescence, to consume sufficient calcium, a period when 60% of bone density is formed and the foundations for future bone health are established. Achieving normal peak bone mass during young adult years is essential as it serves as a baseline from which age-related bone resorption begins, which can be exacerbated by factors like calcium or vitamin D deficiency leading to higher rates of bone loss.