Two new studies which have just been published in the British medical journal reinforce the growing skepticism about calcium supplements prescribed to strengthen bone health. While seniors are often prescribed a daily intake of 1000 to 1200 mg of calcium to prevent fractures, these two studies written by New Zealand researchers believe that there is too little evidence to show that Calcium supplements are actually effective in providing better bone health.
They further point out, that the small benefit of these supplements is offset by minor but bothersome side effects like the constipation or more serious effects such as cardiovascular risks.
Researchers analyzed dozens of studies examining calcium intake in men and women over the age of 50. While they did see an increase in bone mineral density of about 1-2% after 5 years, they believe this increase is “unlikely to translate into a clinically meaningful reduction in fractures.”
These conclusions apply to food supplements but also to diets fortified with calcium.
“The calcium we consume when we eat a variety of foods should be enough for good bone health,” the researchers conclude.
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