Question

what are the effects of alcohol and smoking on bones?

Answer 1

Smoking and alcohol are known risk factors for osteoporosis. They act to reduce the bone density.

Smoking reduces the blood supply to the bones. It also slows down the production of bone forming cells. It interferes with the absorption of calcium. People who smoke have a greater tendency to experience exercise related injuries such as fractures because they have weakened bones.

Alcohol interferes with the pancreas and its absorption of calcium and vitamin D. Alcohol also affects the liver which is responsible for activating vitamin D that is responsible for absortion of calcium. Excess alcohol consumption kills osteoblats which are the bone forming cells.