The Medscape Medical Minute
We know that men and women over the age of 50 are prone to osteoporosis and increased risk of fractures. A group of investigators from New South Wales in Australia applied the tools of meta-analysis to address the continuing question of whether therapeutic oral calcium supplementation, with or without vitamin D, reduces bone mineral loss and risk of fracture.Twenty-nine randomized trials of people over the age of 50 met their rigorous criteria for inclusion. In their study, recently published in The Lancet, the results demonstrated a significant reduction of bone loss at the hip and in the spine. Plus, there was a 12% reduction of fractures of all kinds. The dose did matter.
At least 1200 mg of calcium and 800 international units of vitamin D daily seemed best.[1] Ongoing studies may further elucidate any potential risks or additional benefits.
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