Vitamin D and Calcium Supplements Failed to Prevent FracturesIn a blind study of more than 5,000 persons over the age of 70, researchers failed to find any significant effect from taking daily supplements of 1,000 mg calcium and/or 800 i.u. vitamin D3. The main thrust of the study was to examine the incidence of bone fractures due to osteoporosis, but they also looked at mortality, frequency of falling and quality of life. Some subjects were given only calcium supplements, some only Vitamin D3 supplements, some both and others placebos. The study spanned from two to five years. “We were a little surprised by our findings because, based on evidence available, the most likely finding was that the combination of calcium and vitamin D would prevent fractures. However, we didn’t find this to be the case. Their conclusion that it may be better to use drugs such as bisphosphonates to help maintain bone density, combined with the fact that the study was funded in part by Shire Pharmaceuticals and the European pharmaceutical company Nycomed, gives the more sceptical among us reason to pause. Assuming the results are accurate, we must assume that there is some biochemical process at work that interferes with proper absorbtion or utilization of calcium in elderly subjects. A better understanding of the underlying processes at work is needed. While this is bad news for those who place their faith in supplements to fight off the effects of osteoporosis, it is not too surprising that such a complex biological process would not easily yeild to a simple fix. Rather than reach for the pills, try exercise -- which has been proven to help strengthen bones. |
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