[Obesity and osteoporosis]

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease associated with an elevation of inflammatory markers such as CRP -- a robust predictor of cardiovascular events. Inflammation also plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis. IL-6 proved to be the most important predictor of bone loss in the proximal femur. Adipocyte-produced inflammatory cytokines are the pathogenetic link between obesity and its metabolic consequences. The different components of the metabolic syndrome are at the same time well-established risk factors for osteoporosis. Physical training, weight loss, and a Mediterranean-style diet all have a proven cytokine-lowering effect. Contrary to muscle mass, adipose tissue if at all contributes only marginally to the preservation of bone. As a consequence, increasing lean body mass while reducing fat mass seems to be the most effective way to prevent both atherosclerosis and osteoporosis.