Role of Micronutrients in Maintaining Bone Health and Reducing Long-Term Health Risks among Postmenopausal Women

Abstract

Objective: To assess the contribution of micronutrients to bone health and the prevention of long-term health risks in post-menopausal women.

Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted from January 2024 to August 2025 at the Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, KRL Hospital, Islamabad, Pakistan, in collaboration with Shaikh Zayed Medical College, Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan. A total of 130 postmenopausal women were enrolled. Demographic, dietary, clinical history, serum micronutrient, and bone mineral density were measured. The levels of serum vitamin D, calcium, magnesium, zinc, alkaline phosphatase, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) were determined. Bone mineral density was evaluated using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry.

Results: The mean age was 59.4 ± 7.1 years, and the mean duration since menopause was 9.2 ± 5.6 years. Vitamin D deficiency was found in 78 (60.0%) women, calcium insufficiency in 52 (40.0%), magnesium deficiency in 44 (33.8%), and zinc deficiency in 49 (37.7%). Osteopenia was present in 55 (42.3%) participants, while osteoporosis was observed in 39 (30.0%). Osteoporosis was significantly more frequent among women with vitamin D deficiency (42.3%), calcium insufficiency (46.2%), magnesium deficiency (45.5%), and zinc deficiency (44.9%). A single micronutrient deficiency was independently associated with osteoporosis, with an adjusted OR of 4.18 (95% CI: 1.81–9.67, p<0.001).

Conclusion: Micronutrient deficiencies were common among postmenopausal women and were significantly associated with osteoporosis and long-term skeletal health risks.