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A Semi-Automated and Reproducible Biological-Based Method to Quantify Calcium Deposition In Vitro
Published on: June 2, 2022
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Calcium and bone health--goodbye, calcium supplements?
1a Nutrition Physiology and Human Nutrition Unit, Institute of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Leibniz University of Hannover , Hannover , Germany.
Climacteric : the Journal of the International Menopause Society
|February 19, 2015
Summary
Calcium supplements can help prevent osteoporosis and fractures, especially for those with low baseline intake. Current evidence does not link calcium supplements to increased cardiovascular risk when intake remains below 2500 mg daily.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Gerontology
- Bone Health
Background:
- Osteoporosis is a significant health concern, particularly in aging populations.
- Adequate calcium intake is crucial for maintaining bone mineral density and preventing fractures.
- Concerns exist regarding the cardiovascular safety of calcium supplementation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of calcium supplements in preventing osteoporosis and fractures.
- To assess the safety of calcium supplements concerning cardiovascular health.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of existing literature.
- Analysis of data based on established epidemiological criteria (Hill criteria) for causality.
Main Results:
- Low baseline calcium intake (<800 mg/day) is linked to bone loss and increased fracture risk in women.
- Calcium supplements show the most significant fracture prevention benefits in individuals with low calcium intake (<700 mg/day) and high-risk groups.
- A total daily calcium intake of 1000-1200 mg appears sufficient for general fracture prevention.
- Evidence does not convincingly demonstrate that calcium supplements increase cardiovascular risk.
- A total daily calcium intake of up to 2500 mg from all sources is considered safe long-term.
Conclusions:
- Calcium supplementation can be beneficial for osteoporosis and fracture prevention, particularly when baseline intake is insufficient.
- Calcium supplements do not appear to pose a significant cardiovascular risk based on current evidence.
- Maintaining total daily calcium intake below 2500 mg is recommended for long-term safety.
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