You’ve heard a lot about calcium to protect your bones. But what
about the fats you eat and metabolize?

Oxidation of fats may contribute to osteoporosis, and the adverse
effects of oxidation on both arteries and bone cells may explain
the parallel development of osteoporosis and atherosclerosis.
Oxidized fats can inhibit the function of bone-forming cells as
well as create inflammation that is a factor in bone loss.

An “oxidized” fat is a fat that has been transformed into an
unstable “free radical” that destroys nearby molecules, thus
damaging your tissues. Fats and oils become oxidized when they
are exposed to heat, light or oxygen. The perfect example is
French fries. They are cooked in vegetable oil that is exposed to
high heat as well as light and oxygen. As a result, French fries
are loaded with oxidized, “free radical” fats.

Moreover, the normal process of metabolism can result in the
oxidation of fats inside your body. That’s why your body
(hopefully) has reserves of antioxidants, which neutralize
oxidized free radicals. But sadly, the antioxidant defense system
of most Americans has been depleted because of a junk food diet
and poor lifestyle choices such as smoking.

If you’re a woman over age 35, we urge you to start a healthy
diet. We also recommend that you talk to one of our doctors about
an antioxidant formula to protect your from oxidized fats in your
body. Calcium is only one piece of the puzzle for maintaining
health bones.

Source: Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids,
2003;68:373-378