Bones

What is a bone?

A bone is a living, growing tissue that makes up our body’s skeleton. 

Bones are made of collagen (a protein) and minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium.

Babies are born with around 300 bones. Some of these fuse together, reducing the number of bones in adults to 206.

Let’s find out why we need bones.

Why do we need bones?

The skeletal system, made of bones, provides shape and support to our body.

• The ribs are bones that protect organs like the heart and lungs.
• The skull protects the brain and provides structure to the face. 
• Bones work with the muscles and joints to help our body move.
• Blood cells are produced in the bone marrow of a bone.
• Bones also act as storage for minerals and fat.

How can we protect our bones?

Bones are strong and flexible. We need to maintain good bone health throughout our life.

• The two primary nutrients for strong bones are Calcium and Vitamin D.
• Consuming calcium-rich foods like dairy products and protein-rich food helps maintain strong bones.
• Exercises like walking, hiking, and weight training increase bone mass and density. 

Fun Facts

Here are some interesting facts about bones!

• The thighbone or femur is the strongest and longest bone in the body.
• The stapes in the middle ear is the shortest bone in the body.
• The hyoid, a V-shaped bone at the base of the tongue, is the only bone not connected to another bone.
• Arms are the most commonly broken bones in adults.
• The collarbone or clavicle is the weakest bone in the body.

Review

Let’s quickly recap what we learned about bones.

• What is the main purpose of the Skeletal System? Provide shape and support to the body
• What is a bone made of? Collagen, Calcium, Phosphorus, and Magnesium.
• Which part of the skeletal system protects organs like the heart and lungs? Ribs
• Which part of the skeletal system protects the brain? Skull
• What are the two primary nutrients needed for strong bones? Calcium and Vitamin D