Bone Disease, Metabolic

The objective of this study is to examine if calcium and vitamin D supplements and/or prune can prevent bone loss in postmenopausal women.

Physical activity is a key stimulus for bone metabolism through both direct mechanisms (e.g., as a result of the applied load and/or impact) and indirect mechanisms (e.g., the activation of several metabolic pathways and the production of several mediators and effectors that have systemic effects). However, different kinds of physical activity exert different effects on bone and endocrine system. Aim of the study is to investigate the effects of different kinds of physical activity on bone metabolism and on the relationships existing between bone metabolism, energy metabolism, hormone profile, and organ functionality.