The Polyphenolic Compound Hesperidin and Bone Protection

Abstract A healthy diet supports the skeleton throughout the lifespan and can help to reduce the risk of osteoporosis and related fragility fractures. While nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D and protein are widely known to support bone development and help maintain a strong skeleton that is resistant to fracture, other food components such as flavonoids can also have positive effects on bone mineral density and structure that ultimately contributes to greater bone strength. Hesperidin is such a flavonoid, abundant in citrus fruits and juices. The bone-supporting properties of hesperidin have been demonstrated in rodent models used to mimic the human situation, particularly the life stages of early development and aging. Further investigation in humans is needed to confirm the findings obtained from rodent models and to elucidate dose-specific and sex-specific responses of bone, particularly whether fracture risk is reduced with higher intakes of hesperidin.