Plant-based macronutrients and micronutrients in combating osteoporosis: research insights and molecular pathways

Osteoporosis is a chronic metabolic bone disease that leads to decreased mineral density and causes damage to bone microarchitecture. Elderly persons are more susceptible to bone fractures and have reduced bone strength due to osteoporosis. Conventional pharmacological treatments are the key therapies, but increasing evidence highlights the potential of nutritional interventions to support bone health. Macronutrients, especially proteins from soy, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, supply essential amino acids vital for type I collagen synthesis, osteoblast differentiation, and bone-forming signalling pathways, promoting bone regeneration and structural integrity. Micronutrients from green leafy vegetables, including magnesium, potassium, vitamin K, vitamin C, zinc, and boron, contribute to mineral homeostasis, enhance calcium absorption, manage oxidative stress, and impact key pathways in bone remodeling, such as RANKL/OPG, Wnt/β-catenin, estrogen modulation, and antioxidant mechanisms. This review examines the current research on the usefulness of macronutrients and micronutrients from numerous plant sources in promoting bone tissue regeneration and reducing dependence on synthetic anti-osteoporotic treatment. It highlights their roles as sustainable, low-risk supplements to traditional osteoporosis treatments by integrating molecular insights with dietary knowledge.