Looking at data from nearly 10,000 adults between the ages of 20 and 59 over a seven-year period, the researchers measured body fat percentage and bone density using dual-energy X-ray bone densitometry (DXA) and then recorded the participants’ data. activity levels.

And, not surprisingly, a sedentary lifestyle was associated with a higher percentage of body fat. But it was also associated with worse bone density compared to more physically active participants.

Those physically active participants not only demonstrated lower body fat, but also higher bone density.

“Our results show that physical activity is a key component of maintaining bone health in both men and women and is strongly associated with lower body fat percentage,” the study authors write, adding, “Sedentary activity is negatively correlated with bone density and is strongly associated with increased body fat percentage.”

They also note that in the future, healthcare providers should encourage patients to increase physical activity to prevent osteoporosis and obesity.