Women should take calcium supplements to prevent osteoporosis

Reported by Susan Aldridge, PhD, medical journalist

Recent findings suggests that calcium alone cannot always stop osteoporosis, but Mayo Clinic doctors still think adequate intake is vital.
Bone thinning due to osteoporosis affects eight million women and two million men in the USA. A recent trial has shown that although adequate calcium intake protects some women, others may still be at risk. Discussing this, doctors at the Mayo Clinic still think that it is well worthwhile making sure you get enough calcium through diet and supplements. You need 1,500 milligrams of calcium a day and also at least 400 IU of vitamin D.

In the recent research, various osteoporosis risk factors were confirmed. Family history of the disease, being thin or small, certain medications and various lifestyle factors. The latter included smoking, alcohol, low physical activity and low calcium and vitamin D intake. Also, certain other medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or type I diabetes may contribute to bone loss. Discuss risk factors and treatment options with your doctor - for a fracture caused by osteoporosis could be very disabling.

Source
Mayo Clinic Health Letter June 2006

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