[Aging and vitamin D]

Although vitamin D plays an important role in bone metabolism, various factors tend to reduce the production of vitamin D in the elderly women, including their reduced activities of daily living (ADL). There is as yet no consensus among researchers as to what intake level of nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D is appropriate for each racial group to prevent bone fractures. To judge the effectiveness of anti-absorptive agents, however, an understanding of sufficient calcium and vitamin D intake levels is fundamental. It is important to re-evaluate both diet and the use of supplements for the elderly women.