Gertrude has a young son named Ben and wants to know how to ensure he develops strong bones. Ben's pediatrician advises her to include calcium-rich foods in his daily diet to achieve high bone mass. Why is this important?

Calcium is a crucial mineral that is necessary for the development and maintenance of strong bones. When Ben's pediatrician suggests including calcium-rich foods in his daily diet, it’s because the body needs calcium to build and maintain strong bones. During childhood and adolescence, the body uses the mineral to build a strong skeletal structure, reaching peak bone mass in the late teens and early twenties.

Strong bones are important for several reasons:

1. Structural Support: Bones provide the framework for the body; they support the body's structure and allow Ben to stand upright.

2. Protection: Bones protect internal organs. For instance, the rib cage protects the heart and lungs, and the skull protects the brain.

3. Movement: Bones, in conjunction with muscles, enable movement. It’s important for children like Ben to have strong bones to be active and engage in physical activities without risk of bone injuries.

4. Storage of Minerals: Bones serve as a reservoir for minerals. They store essential nutrients like calcium and phosphorus, which can be released into the body when needed.

If Ben does not get enough calcium during his growing years, he might not reach his full potential peak bone mass, which could lead to weak bones and increase the risk of fractures and osteoporosis later in life. Therefore, his diet should include foods rich in calcium such as dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt), leafy green vegetables, nuts, and foods fortified with calcium to ensure the development of strong and healthy bones.