Chugging a carton of milk isn’t the only way to build strong bones.

They serve a few different functions, but theyre mainly there to support you and protect your internal organs.

Here are the best bone-friendly nutrients and the healthiest foods (and drinks!)

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Photo:JackF/Getty Images

to incorporate in your meal plan.

Some foods provide nutrients that replenish and strengthen bones, while others diminish and destroy healthy bone mass.

If taking care of your bones is your goal, certain foods may be worth avoiding or enjoying moderation.

A bowl of yogurt with granola and fruit

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Too much sodium, caffeine, and alcohol can hurt bones, she explains.

The fermented aspect of yogurt may also help.

Certain nutrients found in prunes may help explain why theyre so good for your bones.

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Not sure how to eat more prunes?

it’s possible for you to also add them to your smoothies or simply snack on them.

Sardinesare underappreciated in America, Moon says.

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Greg DuPree

A 2020 review found that soy foods are especially beneficial for postmenopausal women.

Soy protein can improve bone density quality and may prevent a bone condition called osteosarcopenia, researchers note.

Cheese

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Calcium and phosphorus are both important nutrients for bone health.

Parmigiano-Reggiano Scrambled Eggs

JENNIFER CAUSEY

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Accessed July 25, 2023.

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Greg DuPree

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Harvard School of Public Health.Calcium.

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Towfiqu Ahamed/Getty Images

2018;180:4-14. doi:10.1016/j.jsbmb.2017.12.009

FoodData Central.Yogurt, plain, whole milk.

Rizzoli R, Biver E.Yogurt consumption and impact on bone health.Yogurt in Health and Disease Prevention.

2017:507-524. doi:10.1016/B978-0-12-805134-4.00029-8

Medical University of South Carolina.Calcium supplements and absorption.

Cottage Cheese with Berries

Cottage Cheese with Berries.Arx0nt

Mayo Clinic.Hypercalcemia.Accessed July 25, 2023.

2020;12(10):e10816.

doi:10.7759/cureus.10816

FoodData Central.Plums, dried (prunes), uncooked.

Harvard School of Public Health.Vitamin K. Accessed July 25, 2023.

FoodData Central.Fish, sardine, Atlantic, canned in oil, drained solids with bone.

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Accessed July 25, 2023.

2020;60(14):2327-2341. doi:10.1080/10408398.2019.1635078

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