According to recent health advice, calcium and vitamin D supplements do not shield healthy older persons against fractures or falls. To lower chances, scientists instead stress the value of frequent health checks, exercise, and balancing training.
A recent draft proposal from the US Preventive Services Task Force has reversed the long-held assumption that vitamin D and calcium supplements are essential for bone health.
The study comes to the conclusion that although these supplements are necessary for general health, they do not shield healthy older persons from fractures or falls.
The suggestion now covers men over 60, which is a major change from earlier recommendations that only addressed women. Dr. Goutham Rao, a member of the task group, clarified that recent research has not discovered a calcium or vitamin D intake that significantly reduces the risk of fractures or falls.
Experts advise against completely ignoring these nutrients, though. Dr. Sherri-Ann Burnett-Bowie of Harvard Medical School stressed that “calcium and vitamin D are still essential for bone and general health.”
“They should be part of a balanced diet or supplemented when dietary intake falls short.”
Experts advise against using supplements in favor of regular strength and balance activities like yoga or tai chi, osteoporosis examinations, and easy safety measures like avoiding ice surfaces in the winter.
Although supplementation is useful, especially for people who are deficient, the paper emphasizes that a comprehensive strategy is needed to prevent falls and fractures.
To protect their safety and well-being throughout their golden years, older persons are advised to talk with their healthcare practitioners about customized solutions.
