The National Osteoporosis Foundation recent analysis supports the use of calcium plus vitamin D to reduce fracture risk.
Osteoporosis is characterised by a reduction in bone mineral density, in which the bones become weak and brittle.
Calcium supports bone remodeling, but low intake reduces density, causing brittle bones. Osteoporosis risk also rises with poor nutrition, inactivity, hormonal imbalance, low vitamin D, and aging. Vitamin D aids calcium absorption.
Calcium is obtained from food or supplements, while vitamin D comes from sunlight and certain foods.
A 2015 meta-analysis found calcium plus vitamin D reduces fracture risk in middle‑aged and older adults (Weaver et al., 2016)
Bone density thins with age (osteopenia). Building strong bones early, plus exercise and good nutrition, helps delay bone loss.
Consult your GP before changing diet, supplements, or medication. Treatment varies and may include nutrition, exercise, supplements, or medication.
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References:
Panula, J., Pihlajamäki, H., Mattila, V.M., Jaatinen, P., Vahlberg, T., Aarnio, P. and Kivelä, S.L., 2011. Mortality and cause of death in hip fracture patients aged 65 or older-a population-based study. BMC musculoskeletal disorders, 12(1), p.105.
Weaver, C.M., Alexander, D.D., Boushey, C.J., Dawson-Hughes, B., Lappe, J.M., LeBoff, M.S., Liu, S., Looker, A.C., Wallace, T.C. and Wang, D.D., 2016. Calcium plus vitamin D supplementation and risk of fractures: an updated meta-analysis from the National Osteoporosis Foundation. Osteoporosis International, 27(1), pp.367-376.