Prebiotics
Other ingredients with potential bone health benefits are prebiotic fibers, which are reported to help bone strength by changing the flora in the colon.
The fiber selectively promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which in turn produce short chain fatty acids. These fatty acids decrease the pH within the intestine, and improve the solubility of the minerals present. Calcium is then better absorbed into the body.
Maximizing the build-up of bone during the highly important pubescent years is seen as one of the two best ways to reduce the risk of osteoporosis later in life. About 35% of a mature adult's peak bone mass is built-up during puberty.
The other approach is to boost bone density in high-risk post-menopausal women by improved diet or supplements.