Serum protein concentrations and bone mineral content in aging normal men

Low serum protein levels and low dietary protein intakes possibly influence bone metabolism. To evaluate the relationships among serum protein concentrations, protein intakes, and bone mineral content (BMC), we have examined two populations of normal men. BMC was measured at two radial sites and a vertebral site. Aging was associated with a fall in BMC at all sites. Serum albumin levels also fell with age and were related to BMC. Albumin concentrations were associated with BMC when other variables (calcium and protein intake, vitamin D levels, parathyroid hormone, and urinary calcium) also were considered. Thus, alterations in protein metabolism may affect BMC and may play a role in the genesis of senile osteopenia.