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Updated: May 1, 2026
Human Skeletal Muscle Biopsy Procedures Using the Modified Bergström Technique
Published on: September 10, 2014
Evidence for an interaction between exercise and nutrition for improving bone and muscle health
Robin M Daly1, Rachel L Duckham, Jenny Gianoudis
1Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition Research, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Victoria, Australia, 3125, rmdaly@deakin.edu.au.
Abstract:
Regular exercise and adequate nutrition, particularly dietary calcium, vitamin D, and protein, are prescribed as strategies to optimize peak bone mass and maintain bone and muscle health throughout life. Although the mechanism of action of exercise and nutrition on bone and muscle health are different-exercise has a site-specific modifying effect, whereas nutrition has a permissive generalized effect-there is evidence that combining calcium (or calcium rich dairy foods) or dietary protein with exercise can have a synergetic effect on bone mass and muscle health, respectively. However, many questions still remain as to whether there is a threshold level for these nutrients to optimize the exercise-induced gains. Further studies are also needed to investigate whether other dietary factors, such as vitamin D, soy isoflavones or omega-3 fatty acids, or a multinutrient supplement, can enhance the effects of exercise on bone and muscle health.
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