Osteoporosis: Taking calcium
Why is calcium used to treat or prevent osteoporosis?
Calcium, combined with vitamin D and weight-bearing exercise, keeps bone loss from getting worse or helps reduce the rate of bone loss that occurs with osteoporosis. And one study showed that vitamin D may reduce an older person's risk for falling by 22%.2
Your bones need vitamin D to absorb calcium. Most doctors suggest daily vitamin D supplements for children and teens, starting by age 2 months. Talk with your doctor about how much and what sources of vitamin D are right for your child. The recommended daily intake is 400 to 800 IU for adults ages 19 to 50, and 800 to 1,000 IU a day for adults age 50 and older.3
If you live in a sunny climate, you can get enough vitamin D through 10 to 15 minutes per day of sun exposure a few days a week; however, older people may not get enough this way. You can also get vitamin D in foods such as egg yolks, liver, saltwater fish, and dairy products fortified with vitamin D. Taking a vitamin D supplement along with your calcium can help strengthen your bones.
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| Author: | Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH | Last Updated: November 21, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology | |
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