Abstract

Hearts and bones.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and osteoporosis (OP) are two common degenerative processes that contribute in great measure to the decline in performance and quality of life of the elderly population. Traditionally, these disorders have been considered as distinct and unrelated entities. However, over the last few years, there has been increasing evidence supporting an important link between CVD and OP. Several genetic association and linkage studies have shown the existence of common genetic determinants for cardiovascular and skeletal diseases. These genes code for several key players on the metabolism of nutrients, such as lipids, calcium and folate, as well as other factors (e.g. sex hormone receptors) that are known to be subject to dietary modulation, suggesting the links at the level of dietary response. Some dietary factors have shown similarities in influencing the risks of both conditions. However, some others act differently in relation with their effects on the development of cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. We therefore suggest that, any dietary and behavioral recommendations targeting to the ‘global health’ of the ageing population would take a comprehensive consideration of their potentially diverse effects (beneficial or deleterious) on the risks of various ageing related disorders, and would be tailored to the individual genetic background.

Qi L, Shen H, Ordovas JM
Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis Jun 2003
PMID: 12955798