The bones, joints and muscles work as a team to maintain our upright posture and allow ample movement. The circulatory system and organs, including the brain, are dependent upon movement for their resistance to disease. The adult skeletal system is made up of 206 bones, where as babies have 350 bones in their body. As babies grow, their small bones fuse together to make larger bones. The skeletal system is incredibly strong, protecting the inner organs, and acting as a lever and attachment for the muscles. Bone is living tissue in continual renewal. Some bones function in a blood-building capacity, which takes place in the bone marrow of the humeri , femurs, ribs, sternum, vertebrae and pelvis. Bones are made up of mineral deposits which provide stability, and cells which lend flexibility. If calcium and magnesium are not adequately provided for in the diet, these minerals will be taken from the bones. The bones will slowly lose their density and deteriorate as a result. Joints are protected with a cartilage covering and lubricating fluid, which prevent the bones from grating against each other. Between the vertebrae in the spine, discs act as shock absorbers.
