Produce, whole grains may lower risk of bone fractures

New study findings reveal that older women may have a lower chance of fracturing bones if they eat lots of vegetables, fruits and whole grains compared to those who don't eat those types of foods.

While the study doesn't prove that it's the foods themselves that decrease the likelihood of fractures, researchers did find benefits for eating healthier fare. In general, for each 40% increase in calories from fruits, veggies and other such nutrient-rich foods, the chances of getting a fracture over 10 years fell by 14% among women.

Studies have also shown that higher intakes of certain nutrients, such as calcium and vitamin D, are also possibly a way to maintain greater bone mass and a decreased chance of fractures later in life.

Lisa Langsetmo of McGill University in Montreal, the lead researcher on the new study, told Reuters Health that although it's recommended that adults eat at least five servings of fruits and veggies each day, most don't hit that target.