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Updated: Aug 12, 2026
11:22
Assessment of Calcium Sparks in Intact Skeletal Muscle Fibers
Published on: February 24, 2014
Calcium requirements of physically active people
1Department of Foods and Nutrition, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-1264, USA. weavercm@cfs.purdue.edu
The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
|August 2, 2000
Summary
Adequate dietary calcium and physical activity are crucial for bone health. Optimal calcium intake, especially with exercise, supports peak bone mass and reduces bone loss in postmenopausal women.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition and Bone Physiology
- Exercise Science and Skeletal Health
Background:
- Dietary calcium and physical activity are independently linked to bone health.
- Inconsistent associations suggest complex interactions influencing peak bone mass and bone loss.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on the effects of dietary calcium and physical activity on bone health.
- To determine optimal calcium intake levels for bone health, considering physical activity.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies examining dietary calcium, physical activity, and bone mineral density.
- Analysis of calcium intake thresholds and their impact on bone health outcomes.
Main Results:
- Low calcium intake (<1 g/d) is associated with lower bone mineral density during peak bone mass development.
- Physical activity is a stronger predictor of bone mineral density than calcium intake when calcium levels approach requirements.
- Approximately 1 g/d of calcium is needed for exercise to positively impact spinal bone mineral density in postmenopausal women.
Conclusions:
- Dietary calcium requirements are influenced by physical activity levels and vary by population subgroup (sex, age, race, culture).
- Recommended calcium intakes appear sufficient for preventing other calcium-deficiency-related disorders.
- Further research is needed to establish population-specific calcium requirements modified by physical activity.
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