Low-quality sleep raises the risk of osteoporosis by triggering harmful shifts in bone metabolism. Researchers from the University of Colorado identified these effects, reporting findings in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism (JCEM).
Experts note that peak bone mineral density for humans typically occurs between ages 20 and 25. This peak is a primary determinant of lifetime fracture risk. Once the density hits its maximum, it tends to stay stable for several decades. As women reach menopause, bone loss accelerates, and men also experience a gradual decline in bone density with age.
Poor sleep quality has the potential to speed up bone aging and raise osteoporosis risk. This relationship was clearly demonstrated in a tightly controlled hospital study. Participants carried out their usual activities while alternating between rest and wakefulness for 28 hours to mimic the stress of night shifts and circadian disruption.
Living under this schedule led to a drop in bone mineral density compared with baseline measurements. The data showed notable adverse changes in the metabolism of bone tissue for both men and women. In particular, the analysis revealed a decrease in markers of bone formation, reflecting reduced activity of osteoblasts, the cells responsible for building new bone.
Scientists concluded that chronic insufficient sleep can drive significant bone loss, osteoporosis, and a higher fracture risk. Conversely, improving night-time sleep quality helps maintain bone strength and overall skeletal health.
Additionally, some older cancer therapies have shown unexpected benefits for bone health, offering potential avenues for protecting bone integrity in high-risk groups.