The Key to Strong Bones and Fracture Prevention: The Bloodstream’s Acid/ Alkaline Balance S ‘TRANGE AS THIS may sound, bone strength begins in the blood- ‘stream. The blood is much more than the red stuff that conjures visions of Band-Aids. It’s one of the most complex tissues in the body. Among its many functions, the blood ‘Transports oxygen to every cell to fuel all physiological processes Transports dozens of nutrients to nourish every cell, Helps keep cells hydrated adequately Collects metabolic wastes and delivers them to the lungs, kidneys, liver, and digestive tract for elimination ‘© Carries the many hormones that influence everything from metabolism to energy to reproduction © Provides a path for the cells and proteins of the immune system that defend the body against illness * Plays a key role in the body's self-repair mechanisms, delivering the building blocks of new cells where they are needed 51