Parents all over the world emphasize the importance of drinking milk and eating leafy vegetables to develop healthy bones. You yourself probably heard the same speech as a child — and it’s important to heed it even as an adult.
Calcium is an important nutrient for not only building strong bones but also keeping bones strong as you get older. The recommended daily calcium intake for men and women aged 50+ is 1,000 to 1,200mg.1 Unfortunately, it’s estimated that only 32% of U.S. adults get an adequate amount of calcium through their diet alone.2
This can increase the risk of osteoporosis, a condition characterized by brittle and fragile bones due to the progressive loss of bone tissue, in adults.
One way to increase your daily calcium intake is through supplements. But can calcium supplements help with osteoporosis? And are there any drawbacks to be aware of?
At ARBDA, our dedicated team consists of licensed osteoporosis doctors who provide personalized care. We recognize that osteoporosis management requires a tailored approach, as there is no universal solution. Rest assured that we are committed to offering you the most effective and suitable osteoporosis treatment based on your individual needs.
The Role of Calcium in Bone Health
Calcium is an essential mineral required for various bodily functions, including muscle contractions, nerve transmission, and blood clotting. However, its most crucial role is in maintaining healthy bones and teeth. About 99% of the body’s calcium is stored in our bones and teeth, providing strength and structural support.5
Can Calcium Supplements Help With Osteoporosis?
Many studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of supplementation in the prevention and management of osteoporosis. The results show that calcium supplements alone offer little
to no benefit in avoiding fractures.3,4
Most individuals in good health should focus on maintaining a well-balanced diet, which includes eating foods rich in calcium like dairy products, soybeans, leafy vegetables, and calcium-fortified options.5
Studies also found that calcium supplements may actually cause more harm than good in some cases.3,4 People who don’t get enough calcium through their diet, those who are lactose intolerant, for example, should consult with their doctor before starting supplements to avoid additional health complications.
Side Effects of Calcium Supplements
- Increased risk of cardiovascular disease4,6
- Increased risk of kidney stone formation4,6
- Increased risk of gastrointestinal problems3,4,6
- Bloating
- Constipation
- Severe diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Increased risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD)6
- Increased risk of metabolic syndrome6
Turn to ARBDA for All Your Osteoporosis Questions!
Osteoporosis is often referred to as the “silent disease” because it rarely displays symptoms in its early stages. Whether you need help managing osteoporosis or simply want to prevent it as you get older, you might be curious as to whether calcium supplements are the right solution.
ARBDA’s osteoporosis specialists are here to help! We will take an in-depth look at your medical history and determine the best treatment personalized to your needs. Contact us to schedule an appointment at any of our six New Jersey locations.
1https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Calcium-HealthProfessional/
2https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2838624/
3https://eje.bioscientifica.com/view/journals/eje/178/4/EJE-18-0113.xml?body=fullhtml-50443
