Most of our bone mass is developed by the time we turn 20. That’s why Dr Powels tells us that “the best time to build bone density is in childhood, adolescence and early adulthood”. However, he also says that it’s possible to “significantly improve your bone mass through a varied diet and regular exercise”.

1. Lift and walk your way to a stronger frame

For those of us aged between 18 and 35, weight-bearing exercises like weightlifting, running, and dancing will improve bone health. When you reach 35, bone density starts to gradually decrease, so it’s crucial to that you do plenty of muscle-strengthening exercise before and after to stay strong – ideally twice a week. Dr Powles adds that we need to “remember to target all areas of the body in workouts, from your arms and legs to your core and back”.

Marylebone-based osteopath Anisha Joshi agrees, telling us that an increase in sedentary lifestyles has been one of the biggest barriers to better bone health. “Lifting weights or doing walking lunges, squats and dumbbell presses can also aid in the strength of your bones. It is important to do these exercises in a slow and controlled way, with good form to gain maximum benefit.”

When push comes to calisthenic shove, it all boils down to doing workouts that are weight-bearing. “Activities like walking and tennis also help us maintain bone mass as they force you to work against gravity.” As an added bonus, Joshi says that exercise improves coordination, muscle strength and balance — all helping us prevent falls and fractures in the first place.

Strength training can also provide hormonal benefits like a slight boost in testosterone and increased human growth hormone levels, both of which can have a positive impact on bone health.

Bone strength: how to increase bone density naturally (and why it matters so much)