Which factor is not associated with an increased risk of osteopenia in teenage girls?

Osteopenia is a condition characterized by lower than average bone density, which can increase the risk of fractures and osteoporosis later in life. Various factors can contribute to increased risk, especially in developing individuals like teenage girls, who are in a crucial bone-building phase.

Drinking one glass of low-fat milk daily provides an important source of calcium and vitamin D, both essential nutrients for bone health. Adequate calcium intake is vital during adolescence for achieving peak bone mass, and a consistent intake may help to reduce the risk of osteopenia. Therefore, the inclusion of low-fat milk in the diet would not be associated with an increased risk of developing osteopenia; rather, it could be protective against it.

In contrast, other factors such as anorexia nervosa commonly lead to malnutrition and insufficient calorie and nutrient intake, directly impacting bone density and increasing the risk of osteopenia. Participation in sports, particularly those that emphasize leanness or have weight restrictions, can also contribute to disordered eating patterns and, subsequently, low bone density. Lastly, having a low BMI can reflect inadequate nutritional intake or high levels of physical activity without sufficient caloric compensation, further putting girls at risk for lower bone density.

Thus, considering these factors,