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Calcium supplementation increases bone density in adolescent girls
1Department of Foods and Nutrition, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907.
Nutrition Reviews
|May 1, 1994
Summary
Calcium supplementation during puberty significantly increased bone density in girls. Adequate calcium intake may reduce future osteoporosis risk.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Bone Health
- Adolescent Health
Background:
- Adolescence is a critical period for bone mass accumulation.
- Inadequate calcium intake is a concern during pubertal development.
- Osteoporosis risk is influenced by peak bone mass achieved during youth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of calcium supplementation on bone density in pubertal girls.
- To determine if calcium intervention can enhance bone mineral accrual during adolescence.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal study design was employed.
- Bone density was assessed over an 18-month period.
- Participants were pubertal girls, with a focus on a calcium-supplemented group.
Main Results:
- The calcium-supplemented group showed significant increases in total body bone mineral density (1.3%).
- Greater gains were observed in spine bone mineral density (2.9%) and bone mineral content (4.7%) in the supplemented group.
Conclusions:
- Calcium supplementation during puberty positively impacts bone density accrual.
- Adequate adolescent calcium intake, maintained into adulthood, may lower the risk of osteoporosis.
- Interventions to increase bone mass in youth are crucial for long-term skeletal health.