Combined Calcium and Vitamin D Supplementation Reduces Bone Loss and Fracture Incidence in Older Men and Women

A recent supplementation study of 389 men and women over the age of 65 years was conducted to address the impact of combined calcium and vitamin D supplementation on nonvertebral fracture incidence and maintenance of bone mass. Daily supplementation with 500 mg calcium and 700 IU vitamin D for 3 years moderately reduced bone loss at several sites and significantly decreased the rate of nonvertebral fractures, compared with a placebo group. Optimal intake of both calcium and vitamin D may be an easily implemented strategy to maintain existing bone mass and reduce the risk of fracture in older men and women.